The URL can be used to link to this page

20120221 Late CorrespondenceLYNN DORAN 4110 Maritime Road Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Mayor and City Council City of Rancho Palos Verdes 30940 Hawthorne Blvd. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Re: Off -Leash Dog Use at RPV Beach below Trump Golf Course Dear Mayor and City Council, February 19, 2012 Dogs need to run and play and interact with other dogs "off leash." Not tethered to their owners. This small stretch of beach is the only place we have in Palos Verdes. I have enjoyed this beach with my dogs for 12 years. We have made many friends over the years. Most people are there with their dogs and are very respectful of the beach, but as we all know there is always the exception. I find that the people who come in the mornings are there to exercise their dogs and themselves. They are happy to have this small area to interact with their dogs. During the week, in the mornings, we may see one or two other dogs on the beach. On Saturday and Sunday, in the mornings, sometimes we don't see any other dogs, sometimes a handful. This last Sunday morning, February 19th, between 9:00 and 10:00 there were 6 dogs and twelve people. It was a beautiful, sunny day at the beach. Everyone had a great time. The beach gets crowded on the week -ends in the afternoon. People come from all over ...... it's parry time at the beach. It is not the dog's fault. It's the people. You ban dogs from the beach, you still have to deal with the people. People leave trash! Could a compromise help solve this issue? Allow dogs on the beach in the mornings only. In the afternoons people can come to sunbath on the rocks with seaweed and beach flies and take a dip in the ocean. You better be a strong swimmer because the rip tides and undertow are strong at that part of the beach. All kidding aside, 1 think a compromise just might be the best of both worlds for our unofficial "dog beach." There are so many alarmist letters going around I find it hard to believe. Photo documentation would really help to prove any of these exaggerations. I even found myself grossly mis-quoted in one of these letters, a letter by Bruce Hoffman. To set the record straight, I did not take my dog to "dog beach" to train her not to eat dog feces. I took her there for some exercise. Also, there were not 50 other dogs on the beach off RECEIVED FRO AND MADE A PART O THE.RECORD A THE � COUNCIL MEETING OFA.. OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK CARLA MORREALE, CITY CLERK leash. When Bruce and I were talking there were three people and one dog, mine. How do these terrible rumors get started? I can verify this one was not true! I am hoping and asking for a solution that will allow us to still enjoy this little stretch of beach with our dogs. Sincerely, 4496ra�n 4110 maritime Road Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL CODE Division 14. Regulation and Licensing of Dogs Chapter 9. Potentially Dangerous and Vicious Dogs Article 1. Findings, Definitions, and General Provisions Cal Food & Agr Code § 31601 (2012) § 31601. Legislative findings and declarations The Legislature finds and declares all of the following: (a) Potentially dangerous and vicious dogs have become a serious and widespread threat to the safety and welfare of citizens of this state. In recent years, they have assaulted without provocation and seriously injured numerous individuals, particularly children, and have killed numerous dogs. Many of these attacks have occurred in public places. (b) The number and severity of these attacks are attributable to the failure of owners to register, confine, and properly control vicious and potentially dangerous dogs. (c) The necessity for the regulation and control of vicious and potentially dangerous dogs is a statewide problem, requiring statewide regulation, and existing laws are inadequate to deal with the threat to public health and safety posed by vicious and potentially dangerous dogs. MADE A PART OF THE RE 7RD T THIEF NCIL MEETING OF // OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK CARLA MORREALE, CITY CLERK Dear Members of the Rancho Palos Verdes City Council: I want to thank the City for fairly considering the establishment of a formal dog beach at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach. I am writing to support dog access, and preferably off -leash dog access, at Rancho Palos Verdes (RPV) Beach. I visit this beach every few weeks with my dog and consider it an important factor in the excellent quality of life that RPV provides. I bought a home in RPV because of the unique natural resources and outdoor opportunities here, especially those I can enjoy with my dog. Threats to the Coastal Environment are from Humans - Not Dogs Some claim there are environmental threats with dogs on the beach. I too am very concerned about the complex problems facing our local environment. However, dogs on this bench contribute a miniscule amount to the long list of cumulative impacts that have caused declines in our Natural resources, and excluding dogs from this beach will contribute nothing towards addressing these problems. For instance, plastics and trash littering our beaches is caused by people and is a state wide issue, even for beaches without dogs. Native plants and animals are impacted by all of us because we have reduced the space they need and have not chosen to plant native plants in our yards and landscapes. If dogs were truly an environmental threat to the beach environment, then why would the City of Laguna Beach, who has a similar rocky intertidal ecology as Palos Verdes, allow them on their beaches? In fact, City beaches in Laguna allow dogs year round. It is only during the summer months Qune-September) that they are restricted to before 8:00 am and after 6:00 pm. The Beach is a Common Resource to Share - Multiple Uses Beaches are a public trust resource to be protected and maintained for the benefit of everyone in the nation. Dog owners and dog access should be considered one of the user groups and uses that the City balances when considering multiple uses of these areas. For beachgoers who prefer not to encounter dogs, there are dozens of other local beaches that prohibit dogs. Beachgoers without dogs have reasonable and fair alternatives, but local dog owners do not. Long Beach and Huntington Beach are not reasonable or fair alternatives for local dog owners who want to walk along the beach with their Canine companions and let them swim. Moreover, this isn't a swimming beach. People generally walk this beach, so why not allow us to walk it with our dogs? Benefits to Local Resident Dog Owners also Enhance our Community As I previously mentioned, one key reason I live here (and pay more to do so) is for the many great and diverse dog walking opportunities in the natural environment, instead of tieing confined to cement sidewalks with cars speeding beside me. Studies are constantly being done that conclude there are mental and physical benefits of owning a dog, spending time in nature, and beingiat the beach, in particular. I enjoy the many other trails where I walk my dog, but there is no substitute for the beach. For local residents who walk our dogs at the beach, it provides exercise and stress reduction. Rather than just sit on the beach, if people have their dogs, they are more likely to walk on the beach and get exercise. The dogs will also be healthier and better behaved if they have vigorous activity, such as the enormous amount of energy they burn by swimming in the ocean. They cannot swim at a dog park. In our stressful lives, this is an important and valuable activity and resource for residents. Happier, healthier people also make better neighbors and community members, so the benefits of this dog beach are far-reaching into our community and our workplaces. Encourage and Reward Responsible Conduct of Dog Owners I agree wholeheartedly that irresponsible dog owners are detrimental to our community. I get very angry with dog owners who do not pick up after their dogs. Perhaps increased trash cans, signs, and poop bags can help solve that issue. Regarding behavior, my dog has been certified by Therapy Dogs International and RECEIVED FROM 5 — AND MADE A PART OF THE RECORD AT HE COUNCIL MEETING OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK CARLA MORREALE, CITY CLERK has her Canine Good Citizen certificate, meaning she is under my voice control and has proper dog manners and I, as a dog owner, took a pledge of responsibility for my dog'. Perhaps the City could consider a program similar to one implemented in Boulder, Colorado. They implemented a "voice and sight dog tag" program2 whereby dogs may be off leash in designated areas if they passed a certification test and wear a special tag. Perhaps RPV could partner with a local dog group, using the Canine Good Citizen test or another, to implement something similar at the beach and on other trails in RPV. I would love to see our City become a model for other cities, as well, in rewarding responsible dog owners rather than restricting all dog owners due to the poor behavior of a few. Encourage and Facilitate Responsible Beach Stewardship by All User Groups I fully agree that our beaches and local wildlife are at risk and need help, but they need us ALL to be responsible stewards in numerous ways. Some of the issues raised could be addressed by outreach and signage. At RPV Beach, include well-positioned signs at the trail heads and entrances to the beach that tell people how to behave responsibly during their visit With dogs or without dogs, such signs are necessary at all beaches. Signage should address preventing pollution and litter, not disturbing other beachgoers and nearby residents, not letting your dog off -leash unless under voice control, picking up poop, and not disturbing the vegetation and wildlife. Both people and dogs need to keep distance from wildlife, as getting near or disturbing marine mammals is a violation of federal law. Perhaps consider having local groups, such as the Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts, inform visitors near the trail heads of proper conduct Perhaps the California Conservation Corps would also be interested in taking it on as a project (Note - enforcement on the beach itself should be left up to trained and active duty enforcement agents.) I also agree that no lifeguards, trash cans, bathrooms, regulations, signage, or emergency access are issues, but these are issues even without dogs. Adding some of these resources can facilitate more responsible behavior by users. To start with, at least consider installing more trash cans and signage. In conclusion, I hope the City will continue to allow dog access at the RPV Beach, preferably off -leash, and become a leader in Los Angeles for including and balancing dog access in the multiple use equation. There are no other beaches for local dog owners to go to and this is a suitable beach for dog use, as it is not a swimming beach. There are numerous alternative beaches nearby and along our coast for beachgoers who prefer not to encounter dogs. Proper signs and outreach efforts should be implemented to inform visitors of responsible conduct with our natural resources. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, J. L. Ise 1 Part of the CGC Pledge: I will not allow my dog to infringe on the rights of others. • I will not allow my dog to run loose in the neighborhood. • 1 will not allow my dog to be a nuisance to others by barking while in the yard, in a hotel room, etc. • I will pick up and properly dispose of my dog's waste in all public areas such as on the grounds of hotels, on sidewalks, parks, etc. • I will pick up and properly dispose of my dog's waste In wilderness areas, on hiking trails, campgrounds and in off -leash parks. 2 http://www.bouldercolorado.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5562&ltemid=411 RANCHO PALOS VERDES TO: HONORABLE MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: CITY CLERK DATE: FEBRUARY 21, 2012 SUBJECT: ADDITIONS/REVISIONS AND AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA" Attached ,are revisions/additions and/or amendments to the agenda material presented for tonight's meeting: Item No. Description of Material G Conceptual Site Plan; Emails from: Marianne Hunter and Family; Ken DeLong K Email exchange between Mr. and Mrs. LaRose and Staff 3 Letters from: Sommer DeRudder, Sophia Goodin, and Sybil Snow; Patt Trottert; Timi Anyon Hallem; Emails from: Charlie Kissel LA County Fire/Lifeguard Division; Dr. David C. Gakenheimer; Anne Hazard; Joel Dime; Teresa Randall; David Schucker; Kathy Gould; Mr. and Mrs. Kraake; Julie Guthrie; Carol Stewart; Jacqueline Mathis; Sam Cortina; Sandy Digilio; Ellen November; TheBucks5; Don Bell; Jean Junyszek; Blair Van Buren; Barb Lancaster; Mary Weedon; Jeff and Violet Hobbs; Susanne Johnson; Virginia Padilla Reyna (et al); Gary Randall; Angela Korab; Bryce Lowe -White; Eric Brill; Mark Young (et al); Chris del Moro; Marianne Shriver; Joseph P. Lanning; Susan Giandomenico; Paula J. Weiner; Jacque Giller; Timothy Giller; Margherita Kalman; Jennifer Gledhill; Jan and Jerry Simon; Sylvia Kan; Karsten Lemke; Lucie and Greg Donald; Allan Rigg; Vivien Yang; Tina Bothamley; Sandra Saiz and Shawn Dugan; James Dibbo; Toni Tramontin; Betty and Bruno Vieri; Sharon Stein; Sandi Mulliner Litman; Kathryn (Webster) McClung; Valerie and Murray Blitz; Nancy Sams; Ellen Lees; Lynn Doran; Pat Barrera; Claudia Dawson Respectfully submitted, (W4 �X� — Carla Morreale ** PLEASE NOTE: Materials attached after the color page were submitted through Monday, February 20, 2012**. _ «- � ............ ............ � max. _ From: Marianne Hunter [2hunter@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 10:14 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Shoreline park Dear Council, Please consider this a letter in support of those you've already received from other members of SOS. In order not to be redundant, my family would like to be counted as in favor of refurbishing shoreline park with an eye to enhancing its natural beauty and the publics enjoyment of it. Thank you, marianne Hunter and family Sent from my HTC 2/21/2012 From: Ken DeLong [mailto:ken.delong@verizon.net] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 2:30 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Subject: Late Correspondence Concerning Abalone Cove Item G on Consent Calendar I urge that this item be pulled from the Agenda and sent back to staff for further definition and project clarity. Some modifications and updating at Abalone Cove are likely in order but $665,000 for what has been identified seems excessive. The lack of specificity of what is to be accomplished as well as budgeting for the proposed project should be a concern to all. The following is from the staff report (page G-2) The Abalone Cove Shoreline Park Improvement Project derives from the September 2, 2008 Council adopted Coast Vision Plan (Vision Plan). The Vision Plan provides the City with conceptual guidance for implementing future improvements to key areas along the coast. The Vision Plan identifies the following goals for the Abalone Cove site: - Add new park amenities - picnic tables, shade features, benches, trash receptacles, and an ADA accessible bluff top trail and trail signage. - Implement an invasive species removal and low profile shade tree planting program within the park. 1 — The Vision Plan was paid for by Annenberg and its relevance to current RPV direction is, at best questionable, and more likely irrelevant. 2 — Some ten years or so ago RPV spent considerable taxpayer funds landscaping Abalone Cove and it looked very nice. However, the "habitat police" declared that the nice looking landscaping was not approved habitat and the nice looking habitat was removed and since then it has been what is apparently now being identified as invasive species. 3 — The invasive species removal is but more illogical oratory. Where will the low profile shade trees be planted? There has been much past dialog about restricting ocean views driving past Terranea and the height of the Coastal Shrub habitat, why will views at Abalone Cove be different? Staff Report (page G-2) Based on the grant scoring criteria and input received from the focus group, the plan for the Abalone Cove Shoreline Park Improvement Project proposes to: • Replace picnic tables and benches, • Construct two shade structures, • Replace trash receptacles, • Install a drinking fountain; • Install mutt mitt dispensers, • Install park benches, • Improve trailheads and all trails/paths; • Improve picnic areas (grading); • Replace bluff top fencing, • Install interpretive signage along trails; • Improve viewing areas (grading); • Provide public art nodes (grading); and, • Install a Preserve kiosk sign. Under the heading of ADDITIONAL iNFORMATION (page G-3) The Memorandum of Unrecorded Grant Agreement The award of the LWCF grant requires the City to execute a Memorandum of Unrecorded Grant Agreement (MQUGA) that records a notice on the title of the project property stating that the property has restrictions for future improvements, that the property is to be maintained and operated for public outdoor recreational purposes as described in the Section 6(0(3) map, and that the property cannot be sold or transferred without written approval from the State of California. Any future contemplated improvements or modifications are subject to approval by the State of California. This restriction encumbers the entire property including the portions within the City's Palos Verdes Nature Preserve (which also includes deed restrictions for conservation purposes). (our emphasis) In addition to the questionable design and budget issues, it would appear that there are significant land use consequences that may not be in the best interests of RPV residents and further discussion is required before submitting to the Grant conditions. In addition why should any of the Abalone Cove park property be within the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve area. Based on the above, we urge the Council to remand this matter back to the staff for further analysis and design. We also urge that a citizens committee be formed to provide input to public lands projects as it appears the best interests of the taxpayers are not being considered. Ken DeLong From: Stella LaRose [ma ilto: Stella LaRose@msn.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 12:22 PM To: Laurenr@rpv.com Subject: Re: UWS Proposal Dear Ms. Ramezani, Thank you for keeping us informed in re the UWS proposal. Even though we are unable to attend tonight's City Council meeting due to a previous commitment, we, as well as most of our neighbors, are in agreement with the new amended arrangement with UWS. We appreciate your efforts in this matter. Russell and Stella LaRose. From: Lauren Ramezani Dear Mr. & Mrs. LaRose, This is a courtesy notification that the item regarding service changes in your street and the Upper Barkentine area (Tarragon and Upper Barkentine Road) is scheduled to go before the City Council on Tuesday 2/21/12. The item is on the Consent Calendar, and is Item K. See below for a link to the staff report. I will also attach it in case it is easier. httV://www.palosverdes.copILMv/citycouncil/agendas/2012 Agendas/MeetingDate_ 2012-02- 21/RPVCCA CC SR 2012 02 21 K UWS 2nd Amendment Residential Solid Was to Agreeme"ddf As I mentioned to you previously, UWS has proposed to provide automated curbside collection in your neighborhood. Backyard service will be available at an additional cost. As Mr. LaRose knows, UWS also went door to door in your neighborhood and spoke to the residents. This proposal seems to be the best solution to your request and petition. As the neighborhood Block Captain, could you please help forward this e-mail to your neighbors? If you or anyone else in your neighborhood has any questions regarding this item, please feel free to call, or e-mail me. I am in the office on Monday and Tuesday. Thank you. Lauren Ramezani Sr. Administrative Analyst- Public Works February 20, 2012 Sommer DeRudder Sophia Goodin Sybil Snow Peninsula Hills Girl Scouts, Troop 535 Rolling Hills Estates Residents To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council and CityStaff Subject: Community Input regarding the Public Outreach: Sustainable Use of the Marine Ecosystem at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach As part of our Silver Award Project, Public Outreach for Sustainable Uses of Marine Ecosystems (POSUME) we have observed the uses at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach, and are concerned that the public doesn't know how to treat marine animals well. We believe that a possible solution to this problem is educating the public on the proper treatment of marine life, as this is essential to preserving the nature at this said beach. We would like to provide testimony regarding future uses at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach, and help create possible solutions to the problems. Observations: • People don't take the proper responsibility over their dogs, such as not picking up their waste after them, resulting in water pollution. • People don't watch where they walk, and end up killing harmless marine life by stepping on them. • People take home living marine animals, thinking of them as souvenirs, as they do not understand that what they have taken is alive. People disrupt the creatures making it a future danger for other marine life. People improperly handle and treat marine life, harming the creatures. People don't keep dogs on leash and they run in the water and in the tidepools. • Inadequate amount of trashcans below trails Summary' We believe that the tide pools, and the creatures living in them should be preserved and we would like to participate in the potential solutions to help ensure they are sustained to be enjoyed by all, especially treated fairly and humanely. Thank you, Sommer DeRudder Sophia Goodin Sybil Snow Attachments 0 Attachment: Two Sea Hares moved from tide pool and left out of water. Dog poo left behind. 0 FEES 1 7 2. ,r Con's to Proposed R. P. V Dog Beach - No longer safe for children, beach -goers, native environment or dogs. - Heavy impact on local sea life and surrounding hillside environment. Including the Endangered Gnatcatcher habitat, Endangered Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly, Live Forever succulent, protected Cactus Wren, Sea Lions, Pelicans, Hawks, and a slew of other native plants and animals that call these tide pools and hills home. Concern for health issues & possible spread of disease. -Illegal -- all dogs must be on a 6 ft leash according to R.P.0 municipal code 6.20.010 as well as LA County Ordinance, also meets little to none of the -Dog Park Site Selection Criteria defined by city council on 8/16/2011 meetings. - Greater Los Angeles County also prohibits dogs on any beach, why should this be an exception? Currently Rancho Palos Verdes beach has none of the following - No Lifeguard = possible drowning - No vehicular access = slow first response in case of emergency - No trash cans=_trashod_presigme_ - No regulations = ghaoti ing - No bathrooms = humaarildo� feces = disease - No signage = do as you please attitude - No dog beach = A, safe enjoyable place for residents, visitors and local environment. Please visit www.saveRPVshores.com for more info on effected environment, dog park info, city hall meetings, and help share your stories. -Click upon the "Get Involved" tab. Copy and paste the sample letter to city f council, add your name / address, comments and send directly to City Council. These -fetters -make -a trig difference, -thank you for helping su_gport our shores. _. e/ _., manatt manatt I phelps I phillips February 21, 2012 BY EMAIL AND OVERNIGHT DELIVERY Timi Anyon Hallem Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP Direct Dial: (310) 312-4217 E-mail: thallem@manatt.com Mayor Anthony Misetich' Council Members Brian Campbell, Susan Brooks, Jerry Duhovic and Jim Knight City of Rancho Palos Verdes Rancho Palos Verdes City Hall 30940 Hawthorne Blvd. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Re: Proposed Dog Park at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach Dear Mayor Misetich and Council Members: We represent the Portuguese Bend Club Homeowners Association, whose property abuts the proposed off -leash dog park at Palos Verdes Beach (below Trump National Golf Course). We urge you to reject this ill-considered proposal. Your staff is considering creating an off -leash dog park at a location which is inaccessible to emergency vehicles in the event of dog bites or injury; is guaranteed to cause animal fecal matter to wash into the ocean (in what surely violates the applicable legal standards for run-off into the ocean and clearly creates a health hazard to ocean swimmers); is unpatrolled by the City, so that no matter what rules or regulations are adopted the City will not be able to enforce them; has no restrooms or utilities or garbage collection; and leads to dogs trespassing on adjacent beach property not owned by the City, as there are no barriers installed by the City to avoid that consequence (and it is not clear that such barriers would be effective, given the known fact that dogs can swim). You are, in fact, considering creating a public nuisance, health risk, and pollution - generator along the coast, in the Coastal Zone, on the beach, with spillover onto beach property under the jurisdiction of the California State Lands Commission. That makes absolutely no sense from a health or liability issue. The City has now been informed that the mere consideration of this possibility has led to increased off -leash dog use of the City beach, and trespass by the dogs and their owners onto the beach owned by my client and used by children and adults who have an expectation that they will be safe from attack by dogs. The City has an obligation to use reasonable efforts to protect its citizens, which in this case means patrolling and controlling the use of the public beach. It 11355 West Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90064-1614 Telephone: 310.312.4000 Fax: 310.312.4224 Albany I Los Angeles ( New York I Orange County I Palo Alto ( Sacramento I San Francisco I Washington, D.C. Q 3 manatt manatt I phelps I Phillips Mayor Anthony Misetich February 21, 2012 Page 2 certainly does not mean creating a dangerous and unpatrolled situation with environmental and public health consequences. I urge you to consider your stewardship of the tidal pools, beach areas, native marine mammals, sea birds, threatened or endangered species, tidal pool dwellers, and restored habitat areas, and to not allow the, degradation this proposed dog park will create. Please also consider the health and safety of your residents, who rely on you to consider them in your decision- making. In short, please vote down this ill-conceived proposal. Very truly yours, Timi Anyon Hallem Partner Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP cc: Carol Lynch, Esq. Portuguese Bend Club Homeowners Association 301465270.1 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: Kissel, Charles [Charles.Kissel@fire.lacounty.gov] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2012 11:55 AM To: carolynn@rpv.com; katieh@rpv.com Cc: Linkletter, Chris; Inscore, Mike; Bird, Maria; tomo@rpv.com Subject: RPV Beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Red Carolynn and Katie, Here is the latest info regarding our position as it relates to the RPV Beach dog issue: - LACOFD-Lifeguard Division will be assigning an Ocean Lifeguard schedule to cover RPV Beach in summer 2012 (third week of June — Labor Day), as per RPV's inclusion under County Fire's Protection District responsibilities. - Lifeguard Southern Section HQ will assign an Ocean Lifeguard (daily hire) prior to and post 2012 summer season; as dictated by RPV Beach activity. - Lifeguard Division's position on whether or not RPV should/shouldn't change RPV City Ordinance allowing dogs on their beach, is and will remain neutral on the topic. - Any official Departmental or Division position would come from LACO Board of Supervisors, specifically from the 4th District. - If RPV decides to convert RPV Beach to a dog beach, the Lifeguard can advise on the rules and regulations but cannot cite on violations of an ordinance (changed or preexisting). Please contact me any additional information is needed on this or any related subject. Thank You, Charlie Kissel Section Chief/Southern L.A. County Fire/Lifeguard Division 1201 Strand, Hermosa Beach, Ca. 90254 310.372-2166 213.819.1481 (c) 2/19/2012 Katie Howe From: David Gakenheimer [dgakenheimer@gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 9:26 AM To: katieh@rpv.com Cc: Robert Voll Subject: Petition from Tract 16540 for Dog Beach Attachments: RPV Dog Beach Tract 16540.pdf Hi Katie, Attached is a petition from the Board of Tract 16540 in support of allowing dogs un -leashed on the new RPV Beach below the Trump National Golf Course. Please forward this to the City Council for their meeting on the subject next Tuesday night. Unfortunately none of us can attend to present it as we have business trips at that time. Thanks for your help. David Dr. David C. Gakenheimer Board Member and CFO Tract 16540 4150 Maritime Rd, RPV CA 90275 dgakenhei erkg ail.com 310-913-3703 N 2/19/2012 Page 1 of 1 COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION FOR TRACT 16640 Portuguese Bend Club East 4100 Palos Verdes Drive South Rancho Palos Verdes, California 90275 Mayor and City Council February 17, 2012 City of Rancho Palos Verdes 30940 Hawthorne Blvd. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Re: Off -Leash Dog Use at RFV Beach below Trump Golf Course Dear Mayor and City Council: The Board of Directors of the Community Association for Tract 16540 supports continuing to allow dogs off-leash.on the beach below the Trump National Golf Course because: 1. The beach is isolated with a rugged climb down from the ridge behind the golf course and as such is not the best choice of a beach for families with small children who might be adversely affected by the presence of unleashed dogs. This beach is an excellent choice for more able people with un -leashed dogs. 2. The Tract 16540 Board believes the presence of dogs and dog owners on the beach increases security for our homes. g. Use of the beach by dog owners will probably minimize the number of visitors to the beach. This is, in fact, helpful in as much as the parking facilities near the beach access points are very limited and trails down and back are very limited and rugged. Having too many.people trying to access the beach at one time (e.g., on warm summer weekend) will strain all the facilities around the beach and possibly cause unlawful intrusion into the private Portuguese Bend Club and Tract 1654o properties next door. 4. We are also concerned about unlawful construction of fire pits which could threaten the homes in the club if a fire breaks out and races up the miffs with the well known wind up draft. We feel this risk, although always present, is less with people whose purpose for coming to the beach is to let their dog run. 5. We are also concerned that this beach is very difficult for life guards, police, fire department, paramedics and other authorities to access rapidly in an emergency. This argues for not malting this a'family beach but continuing its use for dog owners who generally are more able to take care of themselves. 6. Finally, this beach has been used for many years by dog owners without any adverse problems. We have not heard any complaints until recently when the City took over ownership of the beach and opened up the discussion as to whether un -leashed dogs should be allowed on the beach. We strongly believe it is best to leave well enough alone. Thus the undersigned Board of Directors of the Community Association for Tract x664o request that the City Council continue to allXtephen each by owners with un leashed dogs. 'Robert Voll, President rt, Vice President David Gakenheirner, CFO (9 3 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: Anne Hazard [hazard44@aol.com] Sent: Saturday, January 14, 2012 8:43 AM To: katieh@rpv.com Subject: dogs Dear Katie, Please help put a stop to the dog traffic on the beach below Trumps. It is way out of control -and looks nothing like the little photo in the rpv city hall web site! I don't think dogs should be down there at all!.(.It's too far of walk for help .. if bitten). and no one is cleaning their poop!..and I think some of it is human..poop.. Yes, it's getting bad down there.. it was a jewel of place -how can rpv let this happen? Please see if you help! Sincerely, Anne Hazard RPV Res. 2/20/2012 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: joeldime@aol.com Sent: Sunday, January 15, 2012 5:09 PM To: cc@rpv.com; Parks@rpv.com; joeldime@aol.com Subject: dog beach I am a resident of the PBC beach club. I am aware that a dog beach next to our property is being implemented next to Portuguese Bend Beach Club. I don't believe this is a wise idea. Unless you will have security policing the facility, you for sure will have pet owners walking their dogs and many will be off the leash which is illegal. This is a problem and they will not follow the boundary line and will be trespassing with their dogs on our property as has been happening. We have signs and they either don't see it or ignore the signs. I have seen more recently much feces on the property and owners not picking up after their dogs. There are many children at this area and feel sure with dogs not on their leash some one adult or child will be injured. A dog area needs to be enclosed and at that point can be taken off the leash. Why would any authority in their right mind want designate a beach for dogs when we need safe and clean areas for our families to enjoy. At Portuguese Bend Beach club we have many beach members over the years and never have I seem feces or heard of a dog biting or barking. I don't want to go to the beach and deal with irate dog owners. We know that dogs are a very delicate subject for pet owners and don't want to deal with one. Why don't they open their back yard for me to take my dog? Why would anyone who has respect for people ever want to open a can of worms such as this when there is no need for such access? You politicians really should ask yourselves is this responsible for me to serve this way. If you open this beach to pets, I hope the city is ready to pay money for potential problems. For sure you will witness a problem. Thank you Joel Dime joeldime@aol.com 2/20/2012 Page 1 of 2 Carolynn Petru From: Teresa Randall [GTRand@cox.net] Sent: Tuesday, February 14, 2012 10:31 AM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Proposed dog beach in RPV Dear City Council and Parks Department, It has come to my attention that there is proposal to make the beach below Trump Golf Course into an official dog beach. I would urge you not to allow this. I have seen several dog owners with their dogs leash in hand, but not on the dog. Not just coming up the trail from the beach, but also along the trails along the bluffs. I have even mentioned to some that there is a leash law in RPV and have received the following responses..."I don't care; what are you going to do about it; this is a dog beach, to name a few. Since when do Dogs pay taxes to the city RPV, that they need to have a place of their own? Many of the people who come to this beach with there dogs don't even live in the area, they drive in. I see them when I have to run errands... pulling in or leaving Ocean Trails Dr. I remember when the Zuckerman brothers were presenting their plans to the city for the Ocean Trails golf course, the city council was concerned about keeping the habitats of wild life that live within the environment and flora preserved. I was glad to see that the city cared about environment. But now outsiders want to come in and "trample all over it". Over used of any area eventually will be destroyed. Are there No Dogs on Beach signs at the trailhead? If not shouldn't there be. Who is patrolling the area or who will be patrolling the area? What about dogs attaching other dogs or people (owners might think their dog would never attack, but let's face it anything is possible) is the city willing to take the risk? What about clean up? I heard about dead dogs being left on the beach and fecal matter. All this becomes a health issue. As a resident and tax payer I don't want to see my tax dollars spent on the up keep of a dog beach regardless of where the owner lives. I remember having a run in with one of the "dog owners" a few years ago. She was coming up from the beach with her two dogs and family. My family and I were going down (no dogs), My older son has an ASD and a dog phobia I have a allergy to dander, the dogs were running up the hill and began jumping up on both me and my son. My son was scared to death. He was yelling and crying. I told her that her dogs needed to be on a leash, she told me that that was a dog beach and they didn't need a leash. I responded by saying that it wasn't a dog beach, then she said obvious you're not from around here. I told her it was obvious she wasn't from around here and I lived across the street. She didn't say anything after that. These are they kind of people I have come across. Traffic will increase, is the city willing to put a traffic light up at PV Dr. South and Forrestal Dr./Ocean Trails Dr.? I have come to hate leaving my home on the weekends with all the traffic ... cars, bicyclist (sometime in mass groups), and people crossing PV Dr. South. I only found out a few weeks ago that they have a yoga class in the park at the entrance to the golf course. Attendees use both Ocean Trails Dr. and Forrestal Dr. to park. What is up with this? No one cares to notify the surrounding neighbors about anything. All these things impact our lives. When we first moved into our home this was the sleepy side of the hill no matter what day of the week it was. Now it has become a tourist attraction with tour buses, a multitude of cars and cyclist every day of the week. This is my home, I live here, I pay taxes. Please do not let outsiders come in and ruin our beautiful beaches and city. 2/20/2012 01 Page 2 of 2 Thanks you for your time. Sincerely, Teresa Randall 3512 Heroic Dr. Rancho Palos Verdes 2/20/2012 C2- Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: CalifSchuckers [schuckerdm@yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 6:36 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Off Leash Dog Beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow Please approve the Off Leash Dog Beach for RPV. I have been taking my dog to this beach for the last three years. It is absolutely perfect for dog owners and beach goers alike. I have been to the beach early in the morning and in the afternoons, on week days, weekends, and holidays for those three years. I am an experienced beach goer who knows this beach. I submit the following facts to encourage the council to make this a legal leash free dog beach: 1. The beach is as pristine as it was the day'l started going three years ago. The tide pools have more star fish, there are more rock mosaics, the flora is richer and more visible. There is absolutely no damage or degradation to the beach from dogs. The people suggesting such damage don't go to that beach. 2. Every dog owner I met picks up after their dog. I have not seen dog feces on the beach itself in all the years I've been going there. 3. Every dog owner and dog we have met got along and played well with each other. I have never seen a fight or a dog bite. Owners with "unfriendly" dogs just do not go to that beach or they keep their dogs leashed. Almost all dogs I met on the beach were not on leashes. 4. The number of dogs and owners on the beach when I go has always been few. Most of the time on weekdays it is under 5. On weekends it may get to 10 or 12. On holidays it can get to as many as 15 or 20. This is miniscule for a beach that size. 5. The beach is far from any major roads making it difficult to get to for those who aren't from Palos Verdes. It will not attract a lot of dog owners from other cities. During any month, ninety percent of the dogs on that beach will continue to be from Palos Verdes as it has been for the last few years. 6. The beach is mostly pebbles and stones and has almost no sand areas except at very low tides. There is very little sunbathing and very few small children go to this beach. That is not likely to change regardless of weather if it formally becomes an Off Leash Dog beach or not. It is best for mature people who enjoy hiking or running on the beach and dog owners who like to let their dogs play in the surf. 7. Those who oppose this proposal claim thousands on the beach with hundreds of dogs. THIS IS NOT TRUE AND HAS NEVER BEEN TRUE. They claim damage to the beach. I HAVE SEEN NO DAMAGE, TO THE CONTRARY IT ACTUALLY HAS IMPROVED OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS. 8. This Beach is a great resource for RPV residents. It can be a leash free dog beach without damaging the environment while providing the local residents who want to use the beach for hiking or dog walking a unique place without expense to the City. Please make this a leash free dog beach. Thank you David J Schucker 2830 Colt Rd RPV,ca 90275 2/17/2012 3 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: Katherine Gould [katherinergould@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 2:50 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: off leash dog beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow To Whom It May Concern I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed off leash dog beach. My husband and I, and our two dogs, have been weekly visitors to the current "unofficial" off leash beach for nearly 8 years and have had nothing but positive experiences. We are typically there on the weekend, and at different times of day. The beach is usually uncrowded, with 20-25 people and a smaller number of dogs being the most we have ever seen at one time. It is extremely rare to see dog waste either on the beach or on the trails, owners take responsibility for their dogs, and the dogs have a wonderful time. The beach itself is an ideal location for this purpose as the steep access trails, rocky/pebbly surface, somewhat isolated location, and rough surf mean it is less desirable than other area beaches for traditional beach activities, and those who prefer not to share the beach with dogs have a number of other options. Our visits to the beach with the dogs are the highlight of our week, and we strongly encourage making the dog beach an official part of the wonderful quality of life in our community. Sincerely, Kathy Gould IN 2/17/2012 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: Katie Howe [katieh@rpv.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 2:14 PM To: 'Katie Howe' Subject: Kraake - Against Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow An RPV resident called today to express that he and wife are against an off -leash dog beach at RPV Beach. His wife's last name is Kraake, and they live on Montemalaga Drive. 2/17/2012 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: Julie Guthrie Bagpt75@yahoo.comj Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 1:58 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: RPB dog beach support Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow Hello, thank you for considering opening a local option for dog owners and their pets! As a responsible dog owner, I have only been able to allow my dog to play up in Santa Barbara's dog beaches, which run beautifully. With proper rules and regulations, I would jump at the chance to not have to drive 1-2 hours to have my dog enjoy the water, sounds and sensory experience of the beach. Julie Guthrie resident of Hawthorne CA 2/17/2012 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: Carol Stewart [caroismares@yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 1:44 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Yes on dog park Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow YES, YES, YES! My vote is a definite YES on a dog park in PV. 2/17/2012 Katie Howe From: jacqueline Mathis [kf6jaoinca@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 1:43 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: off -leash dog beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow We love dogs BUT we would like to take our children and grandchildren to the beach and have a lunch and enjoy the water. It is such a pleasure. Please let the people walk in the sand. J 2/17/2012 Page 1 of 1 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: Sam Cortina [samcortina@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 1:29 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: DOG BEACH PLEASE! Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE! We need a dog beach in the south bay! Driving to Huntington is terrible. Everytime I go there I go out for lunch and shop as well which puts more money into the hands of Huntington that we are losing out on! -Sam Cortina 2/17/2012 3. Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: sandy digilio [sandydig@hotmail.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 1:01 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow Dear Rancho Palos Verdes City Council, This email is to lend support for the dog beach proposal in RPV. The south bay is in desperate need of a beach for our dogs to play and may potentially be an additional source of revenue for the city. Please vote in favor of this proposal. Kind Regards, Sandy Digilio 2/17/2012 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: Ellen November [ellen.november@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 11:13 AM To: parks@rpv.com; Anthony Misetich; Brian Campbell; Carolyn Lehr; Carolynn Petru; City Manager; Jerry Duhovic; Jim Knight; Katie Howe; Susan Brooks Subject: In favor of off leash dog park at Trump Beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow I am a 29 year resident of RPV and am 100% in favor of an off leash dog park at Trump Beach. Ellen November mobile: 310-384-6912 2/17/2012 Katie Howe From: TheBucks5@aol.com Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 10:23 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Trump dog park Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow Please, no dog park at this beach. There are reasons why dogs are no allowed on state park beaches. Please consider these reasons. The number of dogs frequenting this beach has grown this last year. 2/17/2012 Page 1 of 1 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: DBe1190275@aol.com Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 8:21 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Proposal - Council Agenda for 2/21/2012 Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow Dear City Council Members, I am against the proposed use of this beach area. No matter the regulation or restriction there will be people who ignore the rules. I am Donald Bell and resident of Rancho Palos Verdes. I served on the PUMP committee and volunteered as a Keeper of the Forrestal Tract for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy for 3 years. I am a dog owner (now 2 wheaten terriers) and have been for my entire life of over 70 years. I am a resident of the Ladera Linda neighborhood for 33 years. I have the walked the proposed area for more than 30 years. I am a member of the Portuguese Bend Beach Club and regularly walk my dogs from the Trump Club House parking lot. I have had the dogs on the proposed dog beach. I am against the proposed use of this beach area. No matter the regulation or restriction there will be people who ignore the rules. Now few dog owners who walk the Forrestal Tract of the Nature Reserve either leash their dogs or clean up the feces. Before the area was "improved" the trails were generally clean and there was abundant wildlife (rabbits, fox, and quail). In my mind the area continues to deteriorate as an ecologic system with a major problem with increased off leash dog use. I enjoy the trails in the Trump area. But again people ignore the clearly posted rules, refuse to take advantage of the available poop bags, and loose dogs regularly terrorize my dogs and other walkers. Just observe the violations of city rules that take place in Founders Park. The beach continues to be impacted by increased use by people who do not leash, control, or clean up after their dogs. I have seen numerous dog fights, trash strewn, and feces attracting flies and risking children's hands and feet. Many pet owners are responsible but the minority will continue to make any area that permits dogs unpleasant and unsanitary and unsafe. Unless the city adds a full time patrol to control the pet owners, the dogs will become a liability as a public health concern as well as negatively impact the fragile shoreline ecology. I remember when the beach area had abalone, octopus, abundant tidal marine flora and fauna and nesting birds. Constant abuse by people who ignore rules and common sense have degraded the area to a near sterile tidal zone. As an additional item, the best area of the shoreline lies between the city beach and the Portuguese Bend Beach Club (who aggressively protects their no dogs rule). I assume this beach is private property. How will the dogs be welcomed there? If the owners object to the city promoting a nuisance, will the city be liable? Respectfully, Don Bell 2/17/2012 Pagel of 2 Katie Howe From: T J [wegolfers@hotmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2012 8:21 PM To: katieh@rpv.com Subject: RE: Dog Beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Blue Thank you ! I would have typed more info , but I was out walking my dog that day & got the info off a flyer at the Trump area. My dogs are well behaved water lovin' retreivers! I live nearby and like the idea that a portion of it be an official dog beach as sometimes I drive all the way to Belmont Shore as I know there is an official one there, but the beach below Trump is only about 3 miles from my house in AF housing at 25th & Western ( we are retired and are planning on living there for some time) Thank you again, lean Junyszek From: katieh@rpv.com To: wegolfers@hotmail.com Subject: RE: Dog Beach Date: Wed, 15 Feb 2012 19:36:13 -0800 Thank you for your comments regarding uses at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach. The Rancho Palos Verdes City Council will consider this matter, including a potential off -leash dog beach, during its regularly scheduled Council Meeting on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at Hesse Park located at 29301 Hawthorne Blvd. in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. The comments you have provided will be included with the staff report prepared for this item and provided to the City Council. The public is also welcome to attend the meeting and provide testimony or provide written comments by email at parks@rpv.com or by mail at 30940 Hawthorne Blvd., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275. For more information, please call the Recreation and Parks Department at 310-544-5260 or view the City's website at www.palosverdes.com/rpv. To be sent future updates on this issue, please join the project listsery using the link below: http://rpvalert.com/ Thank You, Recreation and Parks Department From: wegolfers [mailto:wegolfers@hotmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2012 10:22 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Jean Junyszek 14 Perigee Cir San Pedro, CA 90732 DI 2/17/2012 Page 2 of 2 Owner of 2 Labradors that love to swim Yes for access to the beach Jean 2/17/2012 0 Dog friendly areas Katie Howe From: Blair Van Buren [BlairVB@afn-net.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2012 9:48 PM To: Katie Howe Cc: Krishna Van Buren Subject: Re: Dog friendly areas Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Blue Thanks for keeping us informed Katie. We have taken our dogs to the beach with us for 20+ years. We think it is important and of value to have designated areas where people can enjoy healthy outdoor -living exercise and experiences with their companion pets. Whether it may be the beach below Ocean Trails / Trump National and/or one of the more secluded beaches, it's an opportunity for RPV to continue to offer unique qualities and experiences for our residents and visitors. Blair On Feb 15, 2012, at 7:50 PM, "Katie Howe" <katiehng,ray.com> wrote: Thank you for your comments regarding uses at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach. The Rancho Palos Verdes City Council will consider this matter, including a potential off -leash dog beach, during its regularly scheduled Council Meeting on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at Hesse Park located at 29301 Hawthorne Blvd. in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. The comments you have provided will be included with the staff report prepared for this item and provided to the City Council. The public is also welcome to attend the meeting and provide testimony or provide written comments by email at parks@rpv.com or by mail at 30940 Hawthorne Blvd., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275. For more information, please call the Recreation and Parks Department at 310-544-5260 or view the City's website at www.palosverdes.com/rpv. To be sent future updates on this issue, please join the project listsery using the link below: http://rpvalert.com/ Thank You, Recreation and Parks Department From: Blair Van Buren [mailto:BlairVB@afn-net.com] Sent: Thursday, September 08, 20113:35 PM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Cc: Krishna Faia Van Buren Subject: Dog friendly areas 2/17/2012 l> Page 1 of 2 Dog friendly areas Page 2 of 2 There are so few dog -friendly beaches. Please let the beach below Ocean Trails / Trump National Golf course, remain a dog -friendly beach. In addition, Sacred Cove, which is quite secluded and relatively difficult to access for the public, should remain dog - friendly as well. Certain communities, like Ocean Beach in San Diego, have successfully managed and even promote and market their dog -friendly beach areas with positive impacts to the residential and business interests around, AS WELL AS for the pets and people. Please do not take away this freedom and this benefit from RPV. Sincerely, Blair & Krishna Van Buren 34 Cinnamon Lane RPV 2/17/2012 Katie Howe From: Barb Lancaster [barb.lancaster@cox.net] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 8:52 AM To: 'Katie Howe' Subject: RE: Dog Beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed Thanks I will be there. Barb From: Katie Howe [mailto:katieh@rpv.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2012 7:31 PM To: 'Barb Lancaster' Subject: RE: Dog Beach Thank you for your,comments regarding uses at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach. The Rancho Palos Verdes City Council will consider this matter, including a potential off -leash dog beach, during its regularly scheduled Council Meeting on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at Hesse Park located at 29301 Hawthorne Blvd. in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. The comments you have provided will be included with the staff report prepared for this item and provided to the City Council. The public is also welcome to attend the meeting and provide testimony or provide written comments by email at parks@rpv.com or by mail at 30940 Hawthorne Blvd., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275. For more information, please call the Recreation and Parks Department at 310-544-5260 or view the City's website at www.palosverdes.com/rpv. To be sent future updates on this issue, please join the project listsery using the link below: http://rpvalert.com/ Thank You, Recreation and Parks Department From: Barb Lancaster [mailto: barb. lancaster@cox.net] Sent: Thursday, January 26, 2012 4:03 PM To: cc@rpv.com Cc: parks@rpv.com; 'Barb Lancaster' Subject: Dog Beach 2/17/2012 Page 1 of 2 Page 2 of 2 would be nice to clarify how the beach is used since there are fishermen there who leave hooks and bait out that the dogs can get into, there are picnickers who don't expect loose dogs and are bothered by the sand and tongues, and there are dead seals all over it after storms which are hard to get removed by anyone. Dedicating this as a dog park will continue to bring visitors to the area — a positive for our community — will keep this an attractive place to live — the dog beach is a big reason we chose to live here — and will help tensions that exist in this informal dog beach. Please allow it to be for dogs .... it's a long drive to Belmont Shores or Huntington Beach, communities that are dog friendly for sure. Please don't overreact to the stories that you hear from non -dog owners .... they were angry to have written you about the situation that drove them to write. I'm there almost every day with Deco and his friends and believe that even at the most crowded times, the dog owners are taking good care of the romping, sandy, wet pooches. I would be happy to do other things to help patrol, inspect, or observe this beach....please call on me, and Deco! Barb Lancaster 310-995-7068 San Pedro, South Shores resident. 2/17/2012 0 Katie Howe From: Mary Beth [marybethweedon@gmaii.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 2:12 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dogs on beaches Hi, I am a resident of Rancho Palos Verdes. I own a dog and bring her to the beach at the Trump Golf Course at least twice a week. I feel that dogs should be allowed on some beaches. I am a beach lover and hate when the beach is dirty but the beach at the Trump Golf Course is full of people with dogs and not anyone that just wants a beach day. If there is any beach that should be open to dogs, please let this one be the one. Thank you for your time. I look forward to attending the city council meeting on this issue this Tuesday. Mary Weedon Sent from my iphone 3 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: Jeff Hobbs Olhobbs@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 2:42 PM To: anthony.misetich@rpv.com; brian.campbell@rpv.com; susan.brooks@rpv.com; jerry.duhovic@rpv.com; jim.knight@rpv.com Cc: parks@rpv.com; citymanager@rpv.com Subject: Trump Dog Beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed 2/20112 To: The Honorable Anthony M. Misetich Mayor, City of Rancho Palos Verdes Mayor Pro Tem Campbell City Council Members Brooks, Duhovic, and Knight Re: Proposed Dog Park at "Trump Beach" Dear Mayor Misetich & Members of the City Council: Thank you for the excellent work you continue to do to enhance the quality of life in Rancho Palos Verdes. I'm proud of our community, and I commend your efforts to serve the City's residents and businesses. In that spirit, I respectfully urge you to consider the best interests of the community with respect to a proposed dog park at the Trump beach. Although I love dogs, public safety must take priority. I've witnessed a few troubling incidents associated with dogs on this stretch. Recently, my neighbor was forced to turn back from a walk on the beach with his family because three pit bulls were roaming off -leash. Another of my neighbors, a local educator, was attacked and bitten by a dog while jogging. The dog was leashed but broke free from its owner. Clearly, this beach is best suited to provide enjoyment to residents and their families, as well as guests and visitors to the City, who should not fear being confronted or attacked by dogs — whether the animal is on -leash or off -leash. Again, I love dogs — and you likely do, too. But the prospect of dog attacks, combined with issues related to hygiene and lack of supervision, clearly indicate that the greater public good — that of providing a safe, family destination for residents and visitors — will be best served if use of the beach is limited to people. I hope you will make public safety the highest priority when deciding this important issue. Sincerely, Jeff & Violet Hobbs 201 Seascape Rd. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 CC: Carolyn Lehr, City Manager 2/20/2012 Pagel of 3 Katie Howe From: susanne johnson [shibbytu@yahoo.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 1:24 PM To: Katie Howe Subject: Re: oppose dog beach in rancho palos verdes Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed Thank you Katie, I know of some other people as well whose correspondence with the city was not recorded. We will be bringing those with us as well tomorrow night. Susanne From: Katie Howe <katieh@rpv.com> To: 'susanne johnson' <shibbytu@yahoo.com> Sent: Monday, February, 20, 2012 1:15 PM Subject: RE: oppose dog beach in rancho palos verdes Dear Ms. Johnson, This email is to let you know that the email below which you sent on January 13, 2012 with your thoughts and concerns on dogs on Rancho Palos Verdes beach was accidentally omitted from the correspondence already attached to the staff report that Council will review at their February 21 Council Meeting. The City has been receiving a very high volume of email correspondence on this topic, and I apologize for the oversight. Staff will make sure that your email is included in the packet of additional correspondence that is provided to the City Council at tomorrow night's meeting. However, I noted that you sent the message to cc@rpv.com, which automatically goes to each of the five Council members. As such, please be assured that each Council member did receive her email in a timely manner. Sincerely, Katie Howe Recreation and Parks Dept. City of Rancho Palos Verdes 310-544-5267 From: susanne johnson [mailto:shibbytu@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, January 13, 2012 9:16 AM To: cc@rpv.com; Parks@rpv.com Cc: pbc association; susanne johnson Subject: oppose dog beach in rancho palos verdes To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to you with great concern with the changes I have seen happening to the beach below Trump's golf course. I have been a resident of Rancho Palos Verdes since it became a city and have walked this portion of the beach often. Since the city has taken over this part of the coastline and deemed it a trial dog beach without any rules and regulations, it has become a nightmare for many. Some days on my walks there have been over 25 off leash dogs on this beach, with about three quarters of them invading the private community of the 2/20/2012 ID Page 2 of 3 Portuguese Bend Club and their club members, portions of which are up to a mile away from the deemed trial dog beach. Rarely, does anyone stay within the so called boundaries of the beach that the city has taken over. There are no signs posted anywhere that this is a trial dog beach and there is no one at said beach to monitor any problems when they have been occurring, and yet people have been coming to enjoy this dog beach, as posted all over the internet and documented, as far away as 50 miles. I do not understand why the city of Rancho Palos Verdes would want to open this, one of only several natural -occurring sandy beaches in all of Rancho Palos Verdes , to an unregulated, second only dog beach in all of Los Angeles county where ten million people live. After reading the minutes from the August 16, 2011 and the December 20, 2011 council meetings, this beach area clearly does not meet the criteria as set forth in your guidelines nor any other guidelines at other dog beaches or dog parks in California . I think that the city is being quite negligent in letting what is happening down there continue each and every day without any public postings, fencing, monitoring and especially since it aloes not fit the criteria that the council so voted on at the December 20th meeting. Every dog beach and dog park has rules and regulations in place to protect the people, dog owners and their dogs. This area is no longer safe for any one group, including dogs, it is out of control on any given nice weather day. The only information that you can find about this subject is on the city's website. How are the ten million people who live in Los Angeles county suppose to know the boundaries, rules and regulations? Your December 20th meeting minutes, speak nothing of a dog beach, but yet this area has clearly been taken over by the dogs. I would like to have a choice as to whether I want to walk by an off leash pit bull or doberman pincher and I do not any longer. I have found that the cons far outweigh any pros that a dog beach would provide here. As a resident of the Portuguese Bend Club, I have had my fair share in the last several months with some disrespectful dog owners and their dogs. They do not stay on the trial dog beach, but walk up to a mile away with off leash dogs to the private beach adjacent to the trial dog beach. These people are not willing to share, they want it all. I have been jumped on by a wet dog. I have had an off leash dog run out of the bushes on the bluff top of Trump's trails and take me down. And I also know of a beach member who was bitten by a dog while she was enjoying her family day at the beach. I have reminded dog owners that they are on a private beach and have pointed out to them where the trial dog beach is located, only to be ignored. Why should the only people who have homes on the beach in all of Rancho Palos Verdes have these confrontations with people who are clearly breaking the law? A trial run is suppose to show how it would work if it was to become legal, and this trial is not working and this dog beach should not become a reality. The idea of a dog beach here sounds great, but the reality of it is a nightmare. Please don't give the coastline to the dogs. Thank you, Susanne Johnson 3 Yacht Harbor Drive Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 2/20/2012 0 Page 3 of 3 http://www.yelp.com/biz/founders-park-rancho-palos-verdes http: //www.yelp. comlbizlocean-trails-by-trump-national-golf-course-rancho-palos-verdes http://www.in-and-around-los-angeles.comllos-angeles-dog-beach-rancho-palos-verdes.html Trump Dog Beach facebook page Google "pros and cons of dog parks" www.dogpark.com --- will find suggested rules and regulations to protect all. Rosie's Dog Beach , the only legal dog beach in all of Los Angeles County, is coned and monitored with many rules and regulations to protect people, dog owners AND their dogs. Each dog must be under the control of an adult and only one dog per adult is permitted. The dog must be under visual and voice control by owner/guardian at all times. Dogs that do not respond to voice commands are not permitted. Children shall be accompanied by an adult and shall not run, shout, scream, wave their arms, or otherwise excite or antagonize dogs. No food of any kind is permitted in the dog area during the designated hours. These are only a few, fairly common rules at any dog park or dog beach and clearly none of these rules can be enforced by the city of Rancho Palos Verdes for an off leash dog beach below Trump's to protect all. 2/20/2012 L3 Pagel of 2 Katie Howe From: virgiepadilla@cox.net Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 12:44 PM To: Katie Howe Subject: Re: dogs on the beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed Katie, I am a Seaviesw resident and Since I can not be at the meeting tomorrow night I am asking you to state our opposition on the "Dog Beach" matter. am strongly opposed to conversion of this beach to a dog beach. Off Leach dogs pose great health and safety hazards for children and elders. On more than one occasion I had to pick up my grand child to keep him from being mauled by a dog that was larger than him and on another occasion lost my footing and fell on the trail because of a large off leach running dog. (I am 64 years old) Please save this beach! This beach is no longer safe for the immediate surrounding residents especially children and seniors. The beach trail at shoreline park or the one just slightly west of shoreline park would be more suitable for dogs. Thank you, My entire family is opposed. Virginia Padilla -Reyna (grand children) Annelise Espinoza, Anastacio Espinoza Manuel G Reyna Joe Espinoza Jennifer Espinoza Robert Espinoza Tina Reyna From: Katie Howe Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2012 7:52 PM To: virgieaadilla6d)cox.net Subject: RE: dogs on the beach Thank you for your comments regarding uses at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach. The Rancho Palos Verdes City Council will consider this matter, including a potential off -leash dog beach, during its regularly scheduled Council Meeting on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at Hesse Park located at 29301 Hawthorne Blvd. in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. The comments you have provided will be included with the staff report prepared for this item and provided to the City Council. The public is also welcome to attend the meeting and provide testimony or provide written comments by email at parks@rpv.com or by mail at 30940 2/20/2012 I Page 2 of 2 Hawthorne Blvd., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275. For more information, please call the Recreation and Parks Department at 310-544-5260 or view the City's website at www.palosverdes.com/rpv. To be sent future updates on this issue, please join the project listsery using the link below: http://rpvalert.com/ Thank You, Recreation and Parks Department From: Joel Rojas [mailto:joelr@rpv.com] Sent: Friday, August 19, 20118:22 AM To: 'Katie Howe' Cc: 'Tom Odom'; 'Greg Pfost' Subject: FW: dogs on the beach From: virginia padilla [mailto:virgiepadilla@cox.net] Sent: Thursday, August 18, 20118:09 PM To: planning@rpv.com Subject: dogs on the beach I just want you to know that I am strongly opposed to dogs on the beach. I stopped going to the Beach at Trumps after two off leach dogs charged my grandchildren. The dogs were bigger than them. There are too many instances of people being mauled by friendly k -nine pets. This is a great liability to the City. Dogs and their owners began using this beach more frequently after Trumps access improvements and became more prominent after it was exposed as a Dog Beach on Good Day LA. RPV should enforce its Ordinance prohibiting animals on beaches, leashed or unleashed. Seaview Resident Virginia Padilla 310-544-6160 2/20/2012 0 Page 1 of 2 Katie Howe From: Gary Randall [grapecon@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 10:44 AM To: 'Carolynn Petru' Cc: GTRand@cox.net; parks@rpv.com Subject: RE: No "Dog Beach" in RPV Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed Hello Carolynn: Thank you for your quick response and confirmation that my wife's email has been received. Sincerely, Gary Randall From: Carolynn Petru [mailto:carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 10:33 AM To: 'Gary Randall' Cc: GTRand@cox.net; parks@rpv.com Subject: RE: No "Dog Beach" in RPV Dear Mr. Randall — Thank you for your email. I wanted to respond to the p.s. below regarding the email your wife sent in on February 14th. I'm very sorry that Mrs. Randall's email was inadvertently omitted from the staff report. The City had been receiving a very high volume of email correspondence on this topic. Staff will make sure that Mrs. Randall's email is included in the packet of additional correspondence that is provided to the City Council at tomorrow night's meeting. However, I noted that she sent the message to cc _rpv.com, which automatically goes to each of the five Council members. As such, please be assured that each Council member did receive her email in a timely manner. Sincerely, Carolynn Petru Deputy City Manager (310) 544-5203 From: Gary Randall [mailto:grapecon@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 8:41 AM To: cc@rpv.com Cc: parks@rpv.com Subject: No "Dog Beach" in RPV Dear City Council Members: I have reviewed the recently published staff report regarding the proposed "Dog Beach" below Trump Golf Course. While I understand that this will be difficult issue to go thru, I want to point out that the "results" or "facts" presented in the report may be unintentionally biased. My personal story offers why I think this may be the case. 1. 1 live in Ladera Linda, very close to the beach in question. I have lived at this location for 14 years. I have lived in RPV for 40 years. 3 2/20/2012 �.;/ Page 2 of 2 2. About 10 years ago, my son was attacked by an off leash dog (when he was 5 years old) in a local RPV park and since then has had a phobia of dogs. Fortunately, he did not suffer significant physical injury, but the emotional scars remain. He has Asperger's Syndrome (an Autism Spectrum Disorder). He enjoys the ocean and beach, but is extremely fearful of dogs. He is so fearful that, if approached by a dog, his judgment of other risk factors is impaired. If he is near a street, or near a cliff, he may step into more danger just to avoid the dog. 3. Due to the marked increased in dog usage at the beach below Trump, we as a family have not visited the beach for several years now. What a shame, as it is a beautiful beach and we live walking distance from it. If we want to go to the beach after 4:00 p.m. in the summer, there is no reasonably accessible beach within RPV to go to (Abalone Cove hours of operation in effect, not to mention $5 parking fee when it is open). 4. We were completely unaware that this beach was being proposed as an official "dog beach" until we received a flyer from a local group (not the city) about a week ago. Apparently advertisements have been run in the Daily Breeze and Peninsula News, but we are not subscribers to either paper and were completely unaware of this proposal until last week. 5. 1 understand that signs have been posted at the beach below Trump requesting input on this issue. On the surface, that seems fine. But since my family does not currently use the beach (for the reasons cited above), we did not see nor were aware of those postings. 6. if it were not for the current ILLEGAL activity of dog owners using the beach, we (as a family) would most certainly have been using the beach and would have seen the signs. As such, I consider us to be "current beach users" that have been driven away by the amount of illegal activity that the city has allowed to occur. My point is that, by posting signs asking for input at a beach that has already been "taken over" by irresponsible, non -law abiding people who have driven other users away, the results are skewed towards those in favor of the proposal. My family is an example of one who fortunately happened to find out about the proposal through means other than the city .... how many other residents are in a circumstance similar to mine and are not aware of this proposal? Is it fair to reward the illegal activities of the activities of current dog owner/users of this beach by giving them a greater voice in the decision? In the staff report, a number of people have included photographs of their dogs running on this beach, apparently in an effort to show how much fun they and their four -legged friends are having .... I urge you to remember that these pictures show the owners engaging in ILLEGAL activity and they are flaunting the city with them. On page 2 of the staff report, the very first point under "Benefits and Strengths" is as follows: Based on the input received to date, there is strong support from the general public for off -leash dog use at RPV Beach. Based on the discussion above, I contend that this statement overstates and oversimplifies the picture and should be heavily discounted, if not ignored, by the City Council at tomorrow night's meeting. In summary, I urge you to be wary of the "results" or "facts" presented in the report. Sincerely Gary Randall 3512 Heroic Drive Rancho Palos Verdes P.S. It is interesting to note that my wife, Teresa Randall, wrote her own email, using her own separate email address, to the city on the very same day that I did (2/14) and her input AGAINST the dog beach proposal was not included in the staff report. While this may be an honest oversight, I can tell you she is not happy and feels that her taxpaying voice has not been heard. 2/20/2012 Katie Howe From: AKorab [we5are@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 11:34 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: No to RPV Off Leash Dog Beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed My concerns for the beach as it is at the moment: We as a family in the past have enjoyed taking regular walks along the beach below the Trump Golf Course. Unfortunately over a year ago one of our family members was attacked by an off leash dog on the beach. Unprovoked it. lunged at their leg and drew blood. This event unfortunately has influenced our use of the beach. We no longer take walks along this beach for fear of being attached. This beach is a very beautiful part of the peninsula and should not be restricted by intimidation to a select few. I understand the need for an off leash park but do not think this beach is the right place for it. Maybe the beach could be evaluated for an on leash park, long leashes allowed provided dogs are under close supervision and owners clean up after them. This would require the City to actively enforce this. This beach has limited access so allowing this beach to become a leash free dog beach will attract more traffic congestion. This beach is not the right place for an off leash dog park. Angela Korab RPV resident. Katie Howe From: Bryce Lowe -White [brycelw@mac.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:05 AM To: Katie Howe Subject: Re: RPV Beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed Thank you for NOT including me for the opposition on the official report posted on your site. I am sincerely offended. Please add my voice to the letter! Bryce Lowe -White I Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 1310.874.06071 www.photoblw.com On Jan 10, 2012, at 3:23 PM, Katie Howe wrote: Good Afternoon Mr. Bryce, Thank you for sharing your concerns with staff and City Council. To answer your question regarding why the dog leash law is not being enforced: The beach has been used for a long time, while under private ownership, as an informal dog beach. When ownership of the beach was transferred to the City in May 2010, rather than immediately enforcing the leash law, Council directed staff to conduct outreach on what uses the community would like to see at the beach, including off -leash dog use, and to conduct research on dog beaches. City Council will be considering the outreach and research in February or March of this year, and likely making a determination at that time on whether dogs will be allowed off - leash on the beach. We will include your comments with the community feedback we have received thus far. If you would like to receive updates on the topic of uses at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach, I recommend you join the project listsery by using the link below (the project title is "Outreach for Potential Dog Beach" and is near the bottom). Please feel free to contact me with any questions. http://rr)valert.com/ Thank you, Katie Howe Administrative Analyst Recreation and Parks Department 310-544-5267 From: Bryce Lowe -White [mailto:brycelw@mac.com) Sent: Wednesday, January 04, 2012 2:39 PM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@r vp com Subject: RPV Beach Hi, I am emailing you because I am concerned about the disrespectful use of the most beautiful beach in our town, RPV Beach, below Trump golf course. The dog issue is out of control and it is evident the beach and environment is being polluted and 2/20/2012 Page 1 of 2 W_ Page 2 of 2 destroyed 1 visitor at a time. From what I know about living in RPV my entire life, there are no dogs allowed on the beach. I would like an answer as to why this law is not being enforced at our beach! It is no doubt one of the most pristine beaches in Los Angeles, however take a look around after a busy weekend, its literally disgusting. A lot has changed in these past few years and now dog feces and urine litters the beach as well as human feces and urine. Its really disappointing having to witness people (humans!) defecating and urinating on our beautiful beach! Disrespectful visitors and their pets leave the beach a mess on all fronts and this needs to stop. I feel pathetic when I sit back and watch this time and time again so I now feel the need to share my disappointment with the council and parks. Bryce Lowe -White I Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 1310.874.0607 I www.photobiw.com U -s 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 7:42 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog Beach -----Original Message ----- From: BRILL [mailto:ebrill@mac.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 8:02 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Dear Sirs: My sons and I go to the beach below Trump every day with our dog, a Shar-pei, and enjoy it very much. We have never seen a dog fight, and it appears that pretty much all of the dog owners pick up after their dogs, using the blue plastic bags supplied on site. I urge RPV to designate this small section of beach a dog area, which would make RPV -- with its nature preserves and trails, Saturday 100- person bicycle groups, and many other things -- an even more interesting and progressive city for residents to enjoy, and non- residents to visit and admire. Probably an off -leash dog section would be best, posted as such so that non dog owning people would know. Sincerely, Eric Brill 3137 Barkentine Road Rancho Palos Verdes 1 �J Katie Howe From: Janet Young [mjaayoung@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 5:55 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach To whom it may concern: We would love to have the RPV Dog Beach be a fixture in our community. our lab Abby loves it there! There are so few places that we can go with our dog leash free. We have never encountered or witnessed any problems while attending this beach. It is a wonderful place and we hope that tomorrow the City Council will approve its continued use as an official leash -free dog beach. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Mark, Janet, Austin and Amy Young - plus Abby Palos Verdes Estates residents 1 3 From: Chris Del Moro [collectic@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 6:27 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Please vote no on proposed dog beach Dear City council, I am writing you with great concern for the proposed dig beach. I am a 4th generation beach goer of these shores and also co-director of surfers for cetaceans ngo. My family and I spend countless hours hear through out the year, and have observed this preserve transform from a hidden gem to a out of control dog beach free for all. Since the city started talking about the proposal, the number of dog and people visiting the beach is growing substantially everyweekend. I am worried for my safety, Persia lot fended off around 50 + dogs over the years, the safety of my little sister whom no longer will go to the beach because she is scared, my family's health connected to disease from absurd amount of feces mixed into the sand and rocks as well as the quality of water. I am also so sad that the sea lions no longer use this beach as a placO to rest, that pelicans are chased by prey driven dogs and that the gnat catchers habitat is now seeing more off leash dogs than ever. We are doing our best to preserve this land for the community, please vote NO on the dog beach. It's dangerous to both our community and to the amazing ecosystem that thrives upon it's shores. We have created a website to help inform those who do not understand how devastating the growing numbers of dogs are. Www. saverpvshores. com. Thank you or your time and considerations, Chris del moro Sent from my Whone 2/21/2012 From: Marianne Shriver [momshriver@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 7:28 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: dog beach Dear Council Members, For the record, I oppose the dog beach. I know you are hearing all of the reasons; I have nothing new to add. Thank you for taking my "vote". Sincerely, Marianne Shriver 21 W. Pomegranate Rd RPV, CA 90275 2/21/2012 From: Joe Lanning Oplanning@yahoo.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 7:42 PM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: POTENTIAL DOG BEACH IN RANCHO PALOS VERDES Dear Honorable Council Members, I am writing to express my support for the proposed off -leash dog beach located below Trump's golf course at the new city -owned beach. Dog parks, and especially dog beaches, are very rare in Los Angeles County. Dogs, on or off leash, are simply prohibited at many parks and other public locations. Opportunities for owners to allow dogs their natural propensity to play and socialize are extremely limited throughout LA County. Los Angeles County -currently has a mere 2 legal dog beaches to serve the many hundreds of thousands of local dogs and their owners. Both of these beaches are located at a considerable distance from the South Bay and the Palos Verdes peninsula. Of the many miles of L.A. county beaches open to the region's millions of inhabitants, dogs are allowed access to only a few hundred yards. By comparison, public parks, playgrounds, athletic fields and beaches available for the exclusive use of humans are ubiquitous and widespread throughout Los Angeles County. Like the adults, parents and children who utilize these venues, dog owners are also taxpaying citizens. Without question, dog owners are entitled to and deserve public and accessible recreational facilities for their pets. I am aware that some citizens have expressed concern over the safety of having unleashed dogs present on the beach. I have walked my dogs many times over the course of 25+ years at the proposed beach, and have never once encountered a hazardous or unpleasant dog -related situation. Invariably, dogs present on the beach were able to play with other dogs and to enjoy an environment and situations that enhanced their social skills, as well as those of the owners. I have never heard of a single serious incident in all of the years that people have been frequenting this beach with their dogs. RPV has a rare opportunity at this point in time to grant the equity that taxpaying dog owners are so frequently and capriciously denied by more benighted municipalities. I therefore urge the city council to vote to establish an off leash dog park. Sincerely, Joseph P. Lanning Sa n Ped ro, CA 2/21/2012 3 From: Susan Giandomenico [susangia@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:44 PM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Potential Dog Beach in RPV I am writing to express my support of changing the existing city ordinance to allow dogs off - leash on RPV Beach. I grew up in the South Bay. Although I currently live in Virginia, I visit the South Bay several times per year with my Border Terrier, Pippin. Each and every time, we make a trip to the RPV dog beach. We both enjoy connecting with other dogs and their people in such a beautiful setting. There is just something about that place that calms the spirit of both human and animal. The only thing that would make it more perfect is to allow the dogs to run free by allowing them off -leash. I have always found the folks down there to be extremely kind, respectful, and definitely concerned about the safety of other beach -goers and their pets, as well as the cleanliness of the beach area. In my experience, the visitors to the dog beach seem to be a self -policing group, watching over their own dogs as well others in much the same way that a group of parents instinctively watch over all the other children at the park. No one wants their kid or ANY kid, furry or not, to have a bad day, get lost, get hurt, or bite someone. They DO, however, want them to be able to run free and play. There are many things Pippin and I enjoy about RPV (mine is shopping, hers is eating -- she loves the hamburgers at Trump Golf Course), but our most favorite thing is spending time at the dog beach. Please consider making our next visit even more enjoyable by allowing her to run off -leash. Besides, how could you say no to this face? :) Sincerely, Susan Giandomenico 103 Panther Paw Path Williamsburg, VA 23185 (757) 220-1209 0 2/21/2012 13 2/21/2012 From: PF Weiner [pfweiner@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 10:12 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Potential Dog Beach Hello — I am 25 -year resident of Rancho Palos Verdes and have often taken advantage of the beautiful walking and hiking trails, as well as the lovely beaches, in the area. Continuing to provide beach access is of the highest priority and I strongly support the presence of at least one location where local pet owners can bring their dogs to share the recreational opportunities afforded by our stunning coastline. As long as dog owners are considerate and required to "pick up after their dogs," I welcome the presence of our furry friends. My experience to date is that most people that bring their dogs to the proposed location (the beach accessible from Founders Park via the Sunset Trail) are very conscientious and I have yet to encounter any problems or interference with my use of this area. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input, Paula J. Weiner Seamount Drive Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 2/21/2012 From: Tim And Jacque [tandjgiller@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 6:19 AM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Cc: Home Subject: Strongly Oppose "Dog Beach"! February 20, 2012 Dear R.P.V City Council, I am writing to you with great concern regarding the proposed dog beach below Trump National golf course. Unfortunately since the city has taken over this part of the coastline and deemed it a trial "Dog Beach" void of rules or regulations, the beach is no longer safe for visitors, native species or dogs. With word spreading quickly through out Southern California and visitors coming from up to 100 miles away, the days of a few people/dogs upon the beach is being swept away by thousands of people and hundreds of dogs rotating through this sensitive habitat. Not only is this use of city property in violation of city ordinances and therefore illegal, this de facto dog park is adversely effecting the local community's safety, it's also directly impacting the endangered Gnat Catchers habitat, Cactus Wren, Live Forever succulent as well as native sea life that call these shores home. I do not understand why the city of Rancho Palos Verdes would want to open one of the few natural -occurring sandy beaches in all of Rancho Palos Verdes, to an unregulated dog beach (only 1 of 2) in all of Los Angeles County where ten million people live? After reading the minutes from the August 16, 2011 and the December 20, 2011 council meetings, this beach area clearly does not meet the Dog Park Site Criteria as set forth in your guidelines nor any other guidelines at other dog beaches or dog parks in California. Every dog beach and dog park has rules and regulations in place to protect the people, dog owners and their dogs. If the City does develop and implement rules and regulations for a Dog Beach, who will enforce them and where will funding come from? This area is no longer safe for any one group, including dogs; it is out of control on must days with good weather and is routinely left trashed. I would like to have a choice as to whether my family or I have to walk by an off leash Pit Bull, Doberman Pincher or German Shepherd, dog/human feces and I no longer do. I have found that the cons far outweigh any pros that a dog beach would provide here. As an unintentional trial run, the current situation shows us how the beach would work, currently this trial gets an "F" for negligence. The idea of a dog beach here sounds great, but the reality of it is a nightmare. With no emergency access, enforcement, lifeguards, fences, signage or rules this is not an appropriate place for a dog beach. Please respect the local community and environment by saying NO to the R.P.V dog beach. Sincerely, Jacque Giller 5968 Yana Court Simi Valley, CA 93063 2/21/2012 0 From: Tim And Jacque [tandjgiller@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 6:27 AM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Cc: Home Subject: Strongly Oppose "Dog Beach"! February 20, 2012 Dear R.P.V City Council, I am writing to you with great concern regarding the proposed dog beach below Trump National golf course. Unfortunately since the city has taken over this part of the coastline and deemed it a trial "Dog Beach" void of rules or regulptions, the beach is no longer safe for visitors, native species or dogs. With word spreading quickly through out Southern California and visitors coming from up to 100 miles away, the days of a few people/dogs upon the beach is being swept away by thousands of people and hundreds of dogs rotating through this sensitive habitat. Not only is this use of city property in violation of city ordinances and therefore illegal, this de facto dog park is adversely effecting the local community's safety, it's also directly impacting the endangered Gnat Catchers habitat, Cactus Wren, Live Forever succulent as well as native sea life that call these shores home. I do not understand why the city of Rancho Palos Verdes would want to open one of the few natural -occurring sandy beaches in all of Rancho Palos Verdes, to an unregulated dog beach (only 1 of 2) in all of Los Angeles County where ten million people live? After reading the minutes from the August 16, 2011 and the December 20, 2011 council meetings, this beach area clearly does not meet the Dog Park Site Criteria as set forth in your guidelines nor any other guidelines at other dog beaches or dog parks in California. Every dog beach and dog park has rules and regulations in place to protect the people, dog owners and their dogs. If the City does develop and implement rules and regulations for a Dog Beach, who will enforce them and where will funding come from? This area is no longer safe for any one group, including dogs; it is out of control on must days with good weather and is routinely left trashed. I would like to have a choice as to whether my family or I have to walk by an off leash Pit Bull, Doberman Pincher or German Shepherd, dog/human feces and I no longer do. I have found that the cons far outweigh any pros that a dog beach would provide here. As an unintentional trial run, the current situation shows us how the beach would work, currently this trial gets an "F" for negligence. The idea of a dog beach here sounds great, but the reality of it is a nightmare. With no emergency access, enforcement, lifeguards, fences, signage or rules this is not an appropriate place for a dog beach. Please respect the local community and environment by saying NO to the R.P.V dog beach. Sincerely, 2/21/2012 01 �J Timothy Giller 5968 Yana Court Simi Valley, CA 93063 MI 2/21/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 7:37 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dogs on RPV beaches From: bikermarg@msn.com [mailto:bikermarg@msn.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 6:32 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dogs on RPV beaches To whom it may concern: I have been a resident of RPV and San Pedro for about 45 years. I have never had any issues with dogs at the RPV beaches. For'the last year, I have been bringing my 2 dogs to the beach near Trump golf course, usually on Saturday or Sunday mornings from around 7 to 10 AM, and generally there have been less than 6 dogs at any time at the beach. All the dogs I have encountered have been well behaved. Please keep the beaches accessible for people and their dogs. Sincerely, Margherita Kalman 91 2/21/2012 From: togledhill@cox. net Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:45 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Rancho Palos Verdes Dog Beach Dear Rancho Palos Verdes City Council: I am writing to you with great concern regarding the proposed dog beach below Trump National golf course. This is one of the few naturally occurring sandy beaches in all of Rancho Palos Verdes. I enjoy this beach frequently. As a resident of this community, I would no longer have access to this beach since I fear unleashed dogs. The dog park would adversely affect local community safety as well as native sea life. Please respect the local community and environment by saying NO to the Rancho Palos Verdes dog beach. Sincerely, Jennifer Gledhill From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 7:41 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: <no subject> From: Jerald I. Simon [mailto:janandjerald@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 8:59 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: <no subject> Dear RPV City Council Representatives: We have lived in the Sea View neighborhood for forty-two years and have walked our dogs on a weekly basis down to the beach below Trump. There has never been an altercation between dogs because off lead, the territorial instincts are not triggered. The owners are all very friendly and cooperative. They also clean up after their pets. Up in the hills, dogs must be on leads and the beach, unofficially, is the one local spot where dogs and their owners can be free to play in the waves. Please leave well enough alone and let this unofficial play spot stay as it has been for all these years. Jan and Jerry Simon, 310-541-3164 2/21/2012 0 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 7:42 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog Park - keep dogs on leash. From: Sylvia Kan [mailto:sylvia@kan.org] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 8:58 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Park - keep dogs on leash. Hello, Please keep all dogs on.leash while on the beach. Children especially, but also some adults, can be intimidated by unwanted and unleashed dogs. Granted, many dogs are friendly, but some are not, so being unleashed would not discriminate one from the other. The beach below Trumps Golf Course is a jewel for the community and should serve the interest of the human population over the interest of the dog population. Thank you, Sylvia Kan 4120 Exultant Drive Rancho Palos Verdes, Ca. 90275 2/21/2012 From: k_lemke@cox.net Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 8:43 AM To: cc@rpv.com Cc: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Dear Council Members: As a homeowner and resident of RPV for the past 20 years, I urge you NOT to let our beaches 'go to the dogs!' My family enjoyed several picnics on weekends at Founders Park, however the many dogs there, many of them without a leash, have spoiled our appetite. Certainly it also must concern you as far as health and safety issues are involved not to mention the spread of disease! Keep the beach for the residents of RPV - NO DOG BEACH ! Concerned and respectfully, Karsten Lemke 2844 Vista Mesa Dr. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 310-200-2049 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 8:55 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Trump beach -----Original Message ----- From: Lucie Donald [mailto:luciegd@aol.com) Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 8:53 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Trump beach We live in New York but do visit California at least 8 times a year and one of our most pleasurable thing to do ( beside visiting our baby granddaughter).is to take our dogs to the beach in Palos Verdes ! There are not many area where dogs can run free and enjoy the water while human companions enjoy the scenery. We have been there many times with our dogs and never did we encounter an issue between dogs or human and dogs. Owners are very respectful of other visitors and dogs are well behave. It is one of the best kept secret in the area and we just hope that you will vote to continue to allow dogs to run free on your beach. Thank you Lucie and Greg Donald 6 Oak Terrace New City NY 10956 845-638-0813 2205 Highland avenue Manhattan Beach Ca 90266 (short term rental) Sent from my iPhone From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 9:20 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog Beach From: Joel Rojas [mailto:joelr@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 9:11 AM To: 'Katie Howe' Cc: 'Carolynn Petru' Subject: FW: Dog Beach From: allan rigg [mailto:allanrigg@yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 8:50 AM To: joelr@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Hi, I would like to express my strong personal support for the implementation of an off -leash dog beach at Trump. It is not often we are given the ability to match our codes to an existing positive use of an area. I have visited the beach several times and it is a wonderful experience. It is a particularly great location for an off -leash dog area as there are no impacts to residential properties. It would seem to also minimize negative impacts in other residential areas of the hill as dog owners will reduce their usage of non -permitted areas. Thank you for your time, and please forward my message as appropriate. Allan Rigg 2/21/2012 0 From: Vivien Yang [vivien.yang@cox.net] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 10:24 AM To: cc@rpv.com Cc: Park@RPV.com; 'Vivien Yang' Subject: RPV Beach* Dear Mayor, Council Members and City Manager: As a resident of Rancho Palos Verdes, I feel lucky we are only minutes to a beautiful beach below the Trump Golf Course; I like very much to be able to see both people and dogs enjoy this beach. Due to the low density of the population in our city, It is perfectly fine to allow the dogs to run off the leash as long as the owner of the dog is there. The steep hill going down to the beach hopefully the city can improve and build up some steps to go down and should have a sign placed at the top, to avoid fall and accidents. There should also be a few trash cans down below for folks and dog waste. Congratulations to the RPV for owning this people/dog beach. (PLEASE KEEP IT CLEAN AND SAFE FOR FAMILIES AND DOG; NO LEASE NEEDED PLEASE). Wang/R.E. Broker/RPV Resident/Keller & Assoc.P.V. 2/21/2012 3, From: ilovesylvester@aol.com Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 10:14 AM To: cc@rpv.com Cc: ilovesylvester@aol.com Subject: dog beach Dear City Council: As a former member and chair of the Recreation and Parks committee, and as a former trainee as a city employee for Rec and Parks, I ask that if you agree to a dog beach, you uphold the leash law that applies in other city parks. I have 3 dogs: one of them is a 17 year old blind Bichon, and one is a 2 year old shelter rescue poodle with only 3 legs. I cannot imagine taking them to a beach with unleashed dogs. I have problems with dog owners in my neighborhood that cannot control their dogs on a leash on a sidewalk. Thank you for the opportunity to submit my concerns. Sincerely, Tina Bothamley 30714 Via La Cresta, RPV. 2/21/2012 �• From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 11:02 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Palos Verdes Beach for Dogs From: sandra saiz [mailto:ssaiz0l@msn.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 10:31 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Palos Verdes Beach for Dogs Hi, I am a Hermosa Beach resident who has been apparently (illegally) enjoying the beach below the Trump golf course with my 2 year old dog. It has recently come to my attention that it isn't actually a dog beach and the city is determining whether dogs should be allowed there and off -leash. I for one would love to for this to be approved. I am now obviously apprehensive about bringing my dog there, and would love if I could continue to do so. We would make it a bi-monthly trip. Getting coffee on the way over and walking along the waters edge while my dog frolics with the others and finds sticks for me to throw for her. It's a great place to go and I hope we don't have to stop going! Please approve the dog beach. Thank you, Sandra Saiz & Shawn Dugan 356 27th Street Hermosa Beach, Ca 90254 2/21/2012 13. From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 11:36 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Tonight: RPV Council to Weigh Off -Leash Dog Beach - We need your continued voiced support to KEEP it Off Leash! From: James Dibbo [mailto:james.dibbo@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 11:29 AM To: Lia Oprea Cc: Tony. barboza@latimes.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Re: Tonight: RPV Council to Weigh Off -Leash Dog Beach - We need your continued voiced support to KEEP it Off Leash! Lia Congratulations for taking this up. As I said in my email to the Council, I too have used this beach with my dog for years and do not understand why there is any pressure to change it. Someone needs to make it clear that the Patch.com survey is totally unrepresentative of the opinions of beach users and easily capable of manipulation. I just managed to vote on it twice and am quite sure if I spent all day I could vote many times. The real public opinion is that expressed by people who named themselves and wrote letters and emails. Those people overwhelmingly support leaving the beach just the way it is. A conspiracy theorist would say that if the Trump organization, or anyone else for that matter, don't want dogs on the beach they would be quite capable of investing a bit of time voting on line voting against it. What is much more difficult is to produce real people who share that view. The real people want to keep the beach the way it is. I hope the Council listens. With very best wishes James Dibbo RPV resident and 'parent' to Charlie, a 2 year old labradoodle whose favorite thing in the whole world is to visit Trump Beach. On Tue, Feb 21, 2012 at 10:51 AM, Lia Oprea <loprea @earthlink.net> wrote: Dear Friends of "Trumps Beach" Off Leash Dog Park. If you are receiving this it is because you wrote a thoughtful letter to Rancho Palos Verdes City Council in support of plans to make (keep) the Rancho Palos Verdes beach (Below Trump's Golf Course) an off leash dog area. The Rancho Palos Verdes City Council will be discussing this issue this evening (Tuesday, February 21). If you can make it to the meeting at Hesse Park, 29301 Hawthorne Blvd, RPV this 2/21/2012 (D evening at 7:00 pm (see below) this would be fantastic. If you cannot make it tonight then thank you for your support thus far. Keep up your written and voiced participation and I will continue to send you updates on this issue. If you would NOT like to receive emails from me on this subject please let me know at loorea e,earthlink.net Many of us have been going to this beach with dogs for decades. I am concerned that those of us who support the Off Leash plan will sit back and just suppose that the City Council will decide to keep the beach as an off leash dog beach. For those of us who have been enjoying this beach with our animals OFF Leash for years, we would just ASSUME this would be the common sense thing to do. But apparently TRUMP management has also spoken out against the off leash dog park and this could carry some weight in deciding the issue. First responses had more supporters for the off leash park: According to the City Council Report on the agenda this evening - via emails and phone there were 193 supporters for the Off leash beach and only 76 people who did NOT support an off leash dog area. The report is a 385 page PDF but only the first 50 pages comprise the actual "Plan" - while the remaing pages are emails for and against the off leash park. You can download this report here - http://www.palosverdes.com/ri)v/ci council/agendas/2012 Agendas/MeetingDate-2012-02- 21/RPVCCA CC SR 2012 02 21 03 Uses At Rancho Palos Verdes Beach.pdf ALERT! Now there are more who do NOT support an off leash park: In the past few days the tides have turned and an informal poll by PATCH.com shows that more people have written in who do NOT support this Off Leash plan. Out of 413 responses to the Patch Poll only 104 (25%) voted YES for the off leash area while 309 people (74%) voted NO. You can take the poll here: http://-Dalosverdes.patch.com/articles/xxx-31 cccdd6 Please join us at the Hesse Park, 29301 Hawthorne Blvd, RPV meeting this evening to voice our support and please do continue writing to the RPV city council (CC(a,rpv.com) and RPV Parks Department (Parkskrrpv.com) urging them to keep "Trump's Beach" an off leash dog area as it has been enjoyed by families and their pets (unofficially) for the past decades. Thanks so much! Emilia (Lia) Oprea - lopreagearthlink.net 310-770-3288 1007 South Catalina Ave. #208 Redondo beach, CA 90277 Here is the text from Patch.com latest message. You can find out more information at the Patch.com site here: http://palosverdes. patch.com/articles/tonight-rpv-council-to-weigh-off-leash-dog-beach Rancho Palos Verdes City Council members tonight will discuss potential uses for Rancho Palos Verdes Beach, including turning the now -informal dog beach into an official off -leash beach. The five -acre beach located below Trump National Golf Club would be the third legal dog beach in Los Angeles County, according to a city report. In August of last year, council members directed staff to research dog beaches, including whether an off -leash beach would be best for the city. The city's Recreation and Parks Departmentrecently asked for community feedback on the potential off -leash beach. A 12 -month pilot dog beach program could begin as early as October of this year, according to a proposed timeline included in the report. Upon its completion, the council would review the program to determine whether dog beach use should continue, according to the report. 2/21/2012 V Council members tonight will consider research and community outreach regarding the potential dog beach. Tonight's meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Hesse Park, 29301 Hawthorne Blvd 2/21/2012 From: Michael Tramontin [trammjt@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 11:52 AM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Dog Park at Trump Beach Dear Concerned Parties - Here's my two cents worth about making this area a dog beach. I think the area would be a great area for a dog friendly beach. I would suggest that the leash restrictions stay in effect. There are just too many liabilities to allow other wise. I take my dog there on leash and have had too many dogs off leash approach her and near fights have almost started. This off leash approach may work in a confined area, but in an area where children play it is dangerous. I've also seen unsuspecting people bowled over by dogs racing around and dog fights start over balls thrown in water and on the beach. I won't go there anymore on the weekends --its just too crazy. The area below the private Portuguese Bend club should be respected, maybe a stiff fine for intruding into this area could be enforced. Fineq should also be enforced when people allow their animals to defecate on the beach and don't pick up after them or worse yet leave the bags on the beach -- for pete's sake they even supply the bags. All this seems to revolve around enforcement --and that will take tax dollars. I would be wiling to make it a pay per use facility, somewhat like at the Portuguese Bend Park. Respectfully, Toni Tramontin RPV Resident W] From: Bruno Vied [bvieri@ieee.org] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 11:59 AM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Proposed Dog Beach Importance: High Dear RPV Council Members, Please do not allow dogs on the Rancho Palos Verdes beach next to the Trump National Golf Club. My wife and I often take walks on the beach and on the paths above it. We do not like the presence of dogs there and we are very concerned that any change that increases the popularity of the beach and paths for dogs will also increase the dangers to public health and public safety, and to our health and safety in particular. We ask you not to ignore these dangers and, in effect, deny the use of the beach and paths to citizens such as ourselves, which becomes a certainty if dogs are permitted off -leash. Yours sincerely, Betty and Bruno Vieri 26520 Mazur Drive Rancho Palos Verdes 310.373.5497 2/21/2012 Page 1 of 1 Katie Howe From: Sharon—Steve Stein [smstein@hotmail.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 3:46 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: YES, on a dog beach in RPV (eom) Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Yellow Sharon 0 2/17/2012 From: angelbichonz@aol.com Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 12:56 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Fwd: Trump Dog Beach -----Original Message ----- From: angelbichonz <angelbichonz@aol.com> To: prks <prks@rpv.com> Sent: Tue, Feb 21, 2012 12:40 pm Subject: Trump Dog Beach To Whom It may Concern: I live at PBC & we can't even take our Bichons to the beach for their safety because of all the dogs off their leash attacking our dogs. I am the only person I've seen with a baggy to pickup after my dogs. The beach is so dirty with trash, dog feces everywhere & it's definately not a healthy beach to go to. There isn't any supervisiion, rules, bathrooms, so they go to the bathroom right on the beach. I know for a fact that these people don't belong here, they come from all over. To make this a doggy park on this beach would be a disservice to all homeowners & local beach goers. Everyone from children, adults & dogs on a leash are being hurt, knocked down & bitten. Please preserve this beach to what it once was, a friendly, clean, healthy & safe beach. Sincerely, Sandi Mulliner Litman 102 Spindrift Drive Rancho Palos Verdes, Ca 90275 2/21/2012 Page 1 of 1 From: Kathryn McClung [k_mcgarden@hotmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 2:19 PM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Feedback for Potential Dog Beach in RPV Hello, I am a resident of San Pedro, but I live just across the street from Rancho Palos Verdes. My children attend a private school in Rancho Palos Verdes (Christ Lutheran School). I want to tell you about our family's experience with the "unofficial" dog beach at the beautiful RPV Beach just below the Trump Golf course. We have a beautiful, young Golden Retriever whose favorite place to go is to this beach. He actually smells the air as we're driving there and knows exactly where we're going. He loves fetching and swimming in the ocean. He is well-behaved and well-trained. We, as a family, go there frequently and enjoy a rich family time in the beautiful, natural outdoor setting (the kind to which I am personally accustomed). Although my husband's family are long-time residents of San Pedro and RPV I moved here from my home town, Poulsbo, Washington. There, my parents purchased and own beach front property on a small bay off the Puget Sound. They have 3 acres of fenced in land, which is just perfect for exercising a high energy dog. We spend part of each summer there with our dog who can exercise and play freely. The main reason I love living on the beautiful Palos Verdes Peninsula is the fact that our whole family (even the dog) can romp and play at the beach. It is extremely geographically desirable! It is a win-win and our dog can easily get the exercise he needs. I have observed well-behaved dogs and respectful and friendly dog owners. I want to thank you for considering a 12 -month pilot dog beach program to prove what a great enhancement this would be to the community. Thank you for your attention. Sincerely, Kathryn (Webster) McClung 628 Rapallo Ave. San Pedro 90732 2/21/2012 0 From: v [verikon@cox.net] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 2:29 PM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Fwd: post for meeting of 2/21/12 BAN OFF -LEASH DOG BEACH Subject: post for meeting of 2/21/12 BAN OFF -LEASH DOG BEACH TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: WE CALL UPON YOU TO PUT AN IMMEDIATE END TO ANY CONSIDERATION FOR AN "OFF -LEASH DOG BEACH". NST THE THOUGHT OF SUCH AN IMPOSITION IS DISTURBING TO BEACH -GOERS WHO WISH TO GO TO SUCH A PUBLIC PLACE WITHOUT HAVING TO WADE OR SWIM IN THE INEVITABLE DOG EXCREMENT, WHO COME TO THE SHORE EXPECTING PEACE AND QUIET AND THE UNDISTURBED SOUND OF THE WAVES, NOT BARKING DOGS, OR THE USUAL NASTY DOG FIGHTS THAT ENSUE. FURTHERMORE WE WOULD LIKE TO BE ABLE TO PERHAPS REST BY THE SEA WITHOUT HAVING TO BE ON CONSTANT GUARD FOR A DOG JUMPING ON US, ATTACKING US, BITING US, SLOBBERING ON US, A FRISBEE HITTING US THAT THOUGHTLESS DOG OWNERS SEND THEIR DOGS TO FETCH, AND SO ON. THE TRUMP BEACH HAS A NARROW UP/DOWN PATHWAY WHERE AN OFF -LEASH DOG COULD EASILY CAUSE A BEACH -GOER TO GO OVER THE EDGE. IT'S BAD ENOUGH WITH DOGS ON A LEASH. ALLOWING DOGS OFF LEASH WILL ONLY RESULT IN MANY WOULD-BE BEACH -GOERS ALTOGETHER AVOIDING THE PLACE THEY ONCE CHERISHED, A SPECIAL PLACE THEY HAD EVERY RIGHT TO ATTEND WITHOUT DOG OWNERS AND THE CITY UNFAIRLY IMPOSING THESE HEALTH AND SAFETY HAZARDS, AND DISTURBANCE OF THE PEACE ON OTHERS WHO HAVE NO WAY OF AVOIDING THE DOGS - THEREBY, EFFECTIVELY KEEPING A SECTION OF THE PUBLIC FROM THE BEACH. THIS PROPOSAL IS TOTALLY WRONG, AND WILL UNDOUBTEDLY RESULT IN LAWSUITS AGAINST THE CITY. DOG OWNERS NEED TO UNDERSTAND THAT THEIR PETS SHOULD NOT TAKE PRIORITY OVER OTHER HUMAN BEINGS WHEN IN A PUBLIC PLACE, AND THIS ONE IS UNIQUE AND UNREPLACEABLE. THERE ALREADY EXISTS SUCH A BEACH LOST TO DOGS IN NEARBY LONG BEACH WHERE THEY CAN GO, UNFORTUNATELY, MANY DOG OWNERS DO NOT UNDERSTAND THAT THERE ARE MANY PEOPLE, AND NOT ONLY CHILDREN, THAT ARE DEATHLY AFRAID OF DOGS. THEY FORGET THAT DOGS OFF -LEASH CAN AND DO VERY EASILY REVERT TO THEIR ANIMAL 2/21/2012 (9 13 INSTINCTS, A VERY REAL FEAR. MANY DOG OWNERS ARE COMPLETELY DISRESPECTFUL OF PEOPLE WHO DO NOT FEEL THE SAME WAY THEY DO ABOUT THE CANINE LOVE OF THEIR LIFE, OR WHO DO NOT WISH THE PROBLEMS THAT COME WITH TAKING A PET IMPOSED UPON THEM. WE CALL UPON THE CITY NOT TO SANCTION THIS GREAT AND UNNECESSARY IMPOSITION AND DISTURBANCE. FURTHERMORE, EVEN WHEN SUCH DOG OWNERS FEEL THEIR PETS TAKE PRIORITY OVER PEOPLE, IF DOG OWNERS REALLY CARED ABOUT THEIR PETS, THEY WOULD NOT SUBJECT THEM TO AN "OFF -LEASH DOG PARK", VEHEMENTLY OPPOSED AND DETAILED IN THE ATTACHED ARTICLE I URGE YOU TO READ FROM THE WEB, WRITTEN BY SOMEONE WHO APPARENTLY THOROUGHLY UNDERSTANDS AND DEEPLY CARES ABOUT DOGS. http://blackbeltdo trg aining.com/articles dogtraining/do p arks.pdf PLEASE LET US KNOW THAT THE CITY WILL NOT ALLOW THE LEASH RESTRICTION TO BE LIFTED SO THAT WE HUMANS - THE ELDERLY, CHILDREN, AND THOSE IN BETWEEN - CAN BREATHE A SIGH OF RELIEF. N01F." 012iito] -of VALERIE BLITZ MURRAY BLITZ Many people like dog parks for the wrong reasons. People constantly feel that their dogs need to play with other dogs and run around and chase each other. They feel this is a good way to get exercise (for their dogs that is) and for social interaction. There are several things wrong with this idea. 1. Dogs are not social animals in the sense that they like to get together with new dogs to hang out and chat. That is a human characteristic, and one that is based on equality. Dogs function on a hierarchical structure. That means that each time a new group of dogs gets together, they will in some way establish who belongs where. 2. Exercise, as in the form of walking together is something that establishes the pack and its leaders; therefore it is something that should be done within your pack. That means you and your dog (s). By taking your dog for a walk or a run, you establish yourself as the leader of the pack. People are lazy and think they can take their dogs to the park and then shoot the breeze with all the other lazy people at the park while their dogs run around. Often these people are totally unaware of what is going on with their dogs. I've been to numerous dog parks and watched oblivious owners chit chatting with each other while their dog is being chased around by a wild pack. The owners think it's cute and often ignore many signs that the dog is actually reaching out for his leaders help. Eventually this dog will grow to disrespect the owner or become a dog that has issues. I've seen and heard the stories that would change anyone's mind as it relates to dog parks. I can tell you of a lab killing an Akita puppy, countless dogfights, owners getting bitten by trying to break up dogfights and countless dogs that are behaviorally ruined from horrible dog park experiences. As I said, it only takes one bad dog to set off a pack behavior that can not be controlled by any person at a dog park. And, when this happens, some dogs are gonna get hurt. When dogs are chasing, their prey drive is set off and they are in drive mode. This can be playful for most dogs, but there are those dogs that, once in drive mode, can get very dangerous. These issues are not breed specific, so there are no labels that I'll put on any dogs with respect to breed. Dogs are dogs and these characteristics relate to all breeds across the board. When a dog enters a dog park his behavior / instinct is to establish himself in the pack. All the dogs that are currently there immediately surround him. The dogs that go to the park regularly have territorial dominance and may or may not express it to a new dog. The new dog may or may not accept it. If he does, it's all good, if not there will be a struggle. Dogs do not communicate like humans do; they base their lives on their rank in the pack. If all the dogs in the park are dogs that your dog knows, and dogs that have a good pack structure there is less likelihood for problems. However, you cannot control who comes to the park and who does not. One bad apple can spoil the whole bunch. One bad dog can spoil the whole pack and one can end up DEAD. Before I researched this issue, I too would take my dog to the dog park. As I watched the struggles I quickly figured out what I am trying to tell you here. I was, and am capable of 2/21/2012 0 breaking up most any dogfight, and have done so on several occasions. I learned quickly that dogs, for the most part are not happy at dog parks, or at the very least can be much happier playing with their own pack or owners without going to the park. I've seen firsthand what I would not want you to see happen to your dog. If a pack of dogs surround your dog and start ripping him apart, you will be incapable of stopping them, believe me. The risk of this happening is worth avoiding the dog park altogether. In my mind, there is no middle ground on this. Even if the park separates the big dogs and little dogs, it doesn't change anything. All dogs regardless of size have these struggles. People who don't believe dogs have rank struggles or function on the alpha structure are those who are in total denial, who don't understand anything about dogs or who have never clearly tried to understand the mind of the canine. The picture below should give you a good example of what can happen to your dog at a dog park. This is not a small dog, but three dogs attacked him and the owner could do nothing to help him. This dog lost one ear for certain and may end up losing the other one as well. This dog is FOREVER disfigured physically and damaged psychologically because people just don't understand the problems with dog parks... This dog did nothing to instigate the fight and ended up at the receiving end of a nasty fight, all for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Of course the owner thought they were doing the right thing. Look at this picture and understand, that this, or worse can happen to your dog. It will be over in a flash and you will be powerless to do anything about it. Humans are mostly incapable of seeing warning signs before a fight breaks out. If they are capable then for the most part they will not be able to stop the fight once it breaks out. There are no benefits to taking your dog to a dog park. Your dog does not need to interact with strange dogs in order to be socialized. This is a huge mistake that humans make on dog behavior. If you want to introduce your dog to other dogs, it should be done in a controlled environment. It should be done with another dog whose temperament you are sure of and it should be done in a controlled environment. Dogs will form close bonds with other dogs that they interact with on a regular basis. This can be an asset or a liability. If the dog bonds stronger with the other dog than you, you lose control over the dog. This might sound petty, but it is my opinion that my dog should see me as the source of everything, not another dog. I am his leader, and I have the ability to protect him. The other dog does not have these tools. I am selective on who I introduce my dog to. He does not need to meet other dogs that I don't approve of. My dog is happiest with me and is comfortable in any situation I bring him in to. He is good with any other dog, birds, cats, children and the list goes on. This is because I spent the time with him and did the work to make this happen. When he came to me he was another out of control dog that could not be fixed. I've had several dogs like this and fixed each one of them. I speak from a place of experience... the experience in fixing the ones others could not or would not fix. In closing I would like to add that these same principles apply to hiking trails, beaches, etc. However dog parks that are closed off or confined are the greatest danger, as the areas are more likely to trigger territorial dominance. When dogs run free, for example on the beach you have no control over their introduction or their interaction, you can't control if one dog will chase the other dog into the street, you are not in control. Yelling doesn't work. People who simply let their dogs run off leash and are unable to recall their dog with any distractions are an accident waiting to happen. They are irresponsible and cause more damage than good to their own dogs as well as all dogs. They are an accident waiting to happen, and are also the ones who are absolutely clueless on dog behavior. When something happens, they are the ones that just shrug their shoulders. If you truly love your dog, you will give him the structure that a leader will give. You will train your dog and teach him that the best place to be is with you at your side. Your dog will understand that you control everything that is good in his life and that you will protect him from everything that is bad. You will be a leader of the pack and you will not listen to the stupid things that people say about your dog needs to run free to be a dog. Your dog can run free in a controlled environment. Remember, the shelters are full of dogs that were owned by people who thought dogs should be dogs. They are being killed every minute of every day because of human ignorance. Don't be one of these humans, do it for your dog. No dog that was properly trained and knew his place in the pack was ever given up by his or her owners. I'd like to stress that I have nothing to gain by speaking out against dog parks. I speak out for the dogs that cannot speak for themselves. Please do your homework and see that what I am telling you is true and that it may save your dogs life. It breaks my heart to see dogs suffer for the human emotions, thoughts and responsibilities we put upon them. To see the faces of the animals in the shelter as I walk by their cages, their eyes pleading for a chance at life. If humans only understood the simplicity of the canine mind, thousands of dogs would be saved. 2/21/2012 From: Joe Lanning Oplanning@yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 3:00 PM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Re: POTENTIAL DOG BEACH IN RANCHO PALOS VERDES Dear Honorable Council Members, I am writing to express my support for the proposed off -leash dog beach located below Trump's golf course at the new city -owned beach. Dog parks, and especially dog beaches, are very rare in Los Angeles County. Dogs, on or off leash, are simply prohibited at many parks and other public locations. Opportunities for owners to allow dogs their natural propensity to play and socialize are extremely limited throughout LA County. Los Angeles County currently has a mere 2 legal dog beaches to serve the many hundreds of thousands of local dogs and their owners. Both of these beaches are located at a considerable distance from the South Bay and the Palos Verdes peninsula. Of the many miles of L.A. county beaches open to the region's millions of inhabitants, dogs are allowed access to only a few hundred yards. By comparison, public parks, playgrounds, athletic fields and beaches available for the exclusive use of humans are ubiquitous and widespread throughout Los Angeles County. Like the adults, parents and children who utilize these venues, dog owners are also taxpaying citizens. Without question, dog owners are entitled to and deserve public and accessible recreational facilities for their pets. I am aware that some citizens have expressed concern over the safety of having unleashed dogs present on the beach. I have walked my dogs many times over the course of 25+ years at the proposed beach, and have never once encountered a hazardous or unpleasant dog -related situation. Invariably, dogs present on the beach were able to play with other dogs and to enjoy an environment and situations that enhanced their social skills, as well as those of the owners. I have never heard of a single serious incident in all of the years that people have been frequenting this beach with their dogs. RPV has a rare opportunity at this point in time to grant the equity that taxpaying dog owners are so frequently and capriciously denied by more benighted municipalities. I therefore urge the city council to vote to establish an off leash dog park. Sincerely, Nancy Sams Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 3 2/21/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 3:51 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dogs Should Be allowed on RPV Beach From: Lees, Ellen S [mailto:ellen.lees@cengage.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 3:50 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dogs Should Be allowed on RPV Beach Good Afternoon, I work in the Carmel area and travel home to Redondo Beach on the weekends. I was shocked to find out there really is only one possible beach in all of the Los Angeles area where dogs are allowed to be enjoy the absolutely exquisite environment of the beach. I was so appreciative of the RPV beach below the Trump National Golf Course. This past weekend, I was saddened immediately to see the signs posted everywhere that the opportunity might disappear. Please know that the Carmel/Monterey area has been so successful with allowing dogs everywhere that perhaps we can learn some valuable lessons on how they do it. We can live harmoniously with non -pet owners especially if there are rules and consequences. Pet owners for the most part are very responsible and understand the importance of maintaining a clean, danger free place for dogs to enjoy themselves. I have a retired service dog so I know he isn't a problem. I would gladly volunteer to educate dog owners on how to treat a special place like RPV beach. Please do not take away a natural place for our "four legged children" to walk, to run and to play. Sincerely, Ellen Lees 2/21/2012 Katie Howe From: Lynn Doran [lynnsky@earthlink.net] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 4:59 PM To: katieh@rpv.com Subject: Letter for to City Council for Dog Beach Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed Attachments: Letter to City Council.pages Letter to City Council.pages (... Hi Katie, Attached is my'letter in support of Dog Beach. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend the meeting. If I can get someone to represent me at the meeting and present my idea, would that be beneficial? Do you still have on file the letter I sent several months ago? I did not cover those issues again. There were other issues I wanted to address at this time. Does my letter need to have my signature? If so, I will see if I can get someone to drop off a hard copy before the meeting. Sincerely, Lynn Doran 1 3 FEB -21-2012 04:57 PM LYNN DORAN 3103771757 P.01 LYNN DORAN 4110 Maritime Road Rancho Palos Verdes, DA 90275 Mayor and City Council February 19, 2012 City of Rancho Palos Verdes 30940 Hawthorne Blvd. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Re: Off -Leash Dog Use at RPV Beach below Trump Golf Course Dear Mayor and City Council, Dogs need to run and play and interact with other dogs "off leash." Not tethered to their owners. This small stretch of beach is the only place we have in Palos Verdes. I have enjoyed this beach with my dogs for 12 years. We have made many friends over the years. Most people are there with their dogs and are very respectful of the beach, but as we all know there Is always the exception. I find that the people who come In the mornings are there to exercise their dogs and themselves. They are happy to have this small area to Interact with their dogs. During the week, in the mornings, we may see one or two other dogs on the beach. On Saturday and Sunday, in the mornings, sometimes we don't see any other dogs, sometimes a handful. This last Sunday morning, February 19th, between 9:00 and 10:00 there were 6 dogs and twelve people. It was a beautiful, sunny day at the beach. Everyone had a great time. The beach gets crowded on the week -ends in the afternoon. People come from all over ...... it's party time at the beach. It is not the dog's fault. its the people. You ban dogs from the beach, you still have to deal with the people, People leave trash Gould a compromise help solve this issue? Allow dogs on the beach in the mornings only. In the afternoons people can come to sunbath on the rocks with seaweed and beach flies and take a dip in the ocean. You better be a strong swimmer because the dp tides and undertow are strong at that part of the beach, All kidding aside, I think a compromise just might be the best of both worlds for our unofficial "dog beach." There are so many alarmist letters going around I find it hard to believe. Photo documentation would really help to prove any of these exaggerations. I even found myself grossly mis-quoted In one of these letters, a letter by Bruce Hoffman. To set the record straight, I did not take my dog to "dog beach" to train her not to eat dog feces. I took her there for some exercise. Also, there were not 50 other dogs on the beach off- FEB-21-2012 04:58 PM LYNN DORAN 3103771757 P.02 leash. When Bruce and I were talking there were three people and one dog, mine. Mow do these terrible rumors get started? I can verify this one was not true! I am hoping and asking for a solution that will allow us to still enjoy this little stretch of beach with our dogs. Sincerely, Lynn Doran 4110 maritime Road Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 1 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 8:26 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Allow Off -leash dog use at RPV Beach Attachments: photo.JPG; ATT00107.txt ! 9 El photo.JPG (141 KB)ATT00107.txt (124 B) -----Original Message ----- From: Pat Barrera [mailto:barreralaw@hotmail.com] Sent: Tuesday,•February 21, 2012 8:04 AM To: parks@rpv.com Cc: Kate Barrera Subject: Allow Off -leash dog use at RPV Beach Please allow dogs off leash on the RPV beach located below Trump National Golf Course. The attached photo was taken yesterday, 2/20/12. My daughters, ages 12, 7, and 6, had a memorable time with our dog, a golden retriever puppy. We would like to continue to enjoy this area of the beach and to have our dog run with other dogs off- leash. We spoke to other dog owners yesterday and we are not aware of any problems with dogs, hikers, surfers, or anyone else who would be bothered by permitting dogs to run free in this small beach area. The area has been used as an informal dog beach for years and we ask you to maintain it as a dog -friendly beach. Thank you! Pat Barrera. 3 From: Claudia Dawson [cndpetsitter@yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2012 4:41 PM To: CC@rpv.com Subject: off leash dog park Please reconsider since I just heard about this issue today. I am writing to voice my opinion My 3 dogs love going to the park to play in a different environment that our big back yard. Claudia dawson It 2/21/2012 RANCHO PALOS VERDES TO: HONORABLE MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: CITY CLERK DATE: FEBRUARY 20, 2012 SUBJECT: ADDITIONS/REVISIONS AND AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA Attached are revisions/additions and/or amendments to the agenda material received through'Monday afternoon for the Tuesday, February 21, 2012 City Council meeting: Item No. Description of Material F Emails from: Alfred Sattler; Eva Cicoria G Emails from: Dena Friedson; Eva Cicoria 3 Letter from Lili Amini; Emails from: TheBucks5; Rachel Moine; Nancy Thompson; Mike and Louise Shipman; Jeff Richards; SWDOZAR; Kathy LaBarbera; Cory Johnson; Gail Dime; Hermens-Phipps Residence; Maggie Orli; George Pisano; Eric Johnson; Tiffany and Michael Blumenthal; Dinah Pelly; Mary Ellen Richardson; Cheryl Huddle -Ford; C. Martin Vincent; Brad and Kari Tapie; Barbara Stevens; Carl Stammerjohn; Ilka Rice; Barry Shapiro; Michael and Franceen McClung; Jeff and Olivia Chavez; Dr. Cassie Jones; Barbara Locke; Gary Randall; Donna Baranowski and Jeff Klempan Maureen and Stanley Moore; Gary Tavetian; Stefanie Trutanic; Danielle Whitney; Yvetta Williams; Kathi Wolfrum; Mary Weedon; Mirza Todorovich; Krystal Saldana; Lorraine Devon Wilke; Robert Fu; Randi Elasowich; Naoaki Miura; Patricia Maduke; Penny Sprague; Richard S. Merrick; Steve Mandich; C.J.Jack; Julie Sanchez; Herb Stark; Eva Cicoria; Don Richardson; Maureen Wishner; Charles Ferraro; Elizabeth Beazley and Parker and Jo Anne Plaisted; Herbert Hyatt; Rita Willens; Allen Snow; John Barbieri; Stan Hoskins; Mercedes Van Pelt; Lili Amini; Allyn Mattox; Jessica Leeds; Colleen Vincent Respectfullyubmitted, aa'� Carla Morreale From: Al Sattler [alsattler@igc.org] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2012 9:06 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Sierra Club letter to SCE attached Attachments: SierraClub_Letter to SCE .pdf �a SierraClub_Letter to SCE . pdf ... City Council Rancho Palos Verdes Dear City Council: Attached is a copy of a Sierra Club letter to SCE. This is relevant to Agenda Item F on the February 21, 2012 City Council meeting. Alfred Sattler Executive Committee Chair Palos Verdes -South Bay Regional Group Sierra Club o S I E RRA. LUB FOUNDED 1892 Marvin Jackmon Regional Public Affairs Manager Southern California Edison 505 Maple Torrance, CA 90503 Dear Mr. Jackmon: Palos Verdes - South Bay Group / Angeles Chapter February 17, 2012 Sierra Club members are concerned about the frequency of fires in which Southern California Edison (SCE) transmission lines are implicated in destroying coastal sage scrub habitat and undoubtedly the wildlife that inhabits it. Most recently, Monday, January 9, 2012, a fire broke out at or near a transmission line tower in McCarrell Canyon, across from Rhone Drive in Rancho Palos Verdes. The fire burned down the Canyon and then into the Three Sisters Reserve, an area within the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve (the Preserve), destroying stands of cactus, home of the coastal cactus wren, a California Species of Special Concern, and other native habitat, and damaging a water main line that runs to a habitat restoration project of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. Less than three years ago, on August 27, 2009, a fire within the Portuguese Bend area of the Preserve burned 165 acres, damaging or destroying many acres of critical habitat. The Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACFD) Arson/Fire Investigative Unit determined that the fire was caused by an electrical mechanical malfunction of the electrical wiring and/or connector adjacent to an SCE power pole. In addition, SCE was determined by LACFD to be responsible for the July 14, 2005 fire that also burned many acres in the Portuguese Bend area of the Preserve. In October, 1997 a fire burned 25 acres in McCarrell Canyon. It was apparently caused by a bird that fell to the ground and ignited the brush below after having been electrocuted by SCE transmission wires. Local residents reported that hawks commonly nested on the transmission towers and that similar fires involving the power lines occurred previously in McCarrell Canyon. Subsequently, as mitigation, SCE installed a nesting platform located below the transmission lines on a support tower. Hawks now nest on the platform in close proximity to power lines. The Preserve is host to four at -risk species including the coastal cactus wren, the California gnatcatcher, the Palos Verdes blue butterfly, and the El Segundo blue butterfly. The contribution of millions of dollars of public and private funds, including contributions by our membership individually and collectively, has enabled the preservation of habitat within the Preserve. Ongoing contributions support restoration to expand and enhance the quality of the native habitat. Frequent wildfires threaten to undermine the success of such efforts. The native flora is slow growing and it is well-documented that frequently burned areas are subject to rapid colonization by invasive plants. Moreover, each fire not only represents a loss of flora and fauna but, depending upon the season, a potential loss of nests, eggs, larvae and pupae of at -risk species. P.O Box 2464 • Palos Verdes Peninsula, California 90274 Printed on Recycled Paper While the City of Rancho Palos Verdes received funds for re -vegetation after the 2005 fire, applied for funds for re -vegetation after the 2009 fire, and may do the same following this 2012 fire, neither natural nor human re -vegetation efforts can keep up with the frequent wildfires that repeatedly reduce the shrub cover and hence the habitat suitability for these rare species. Nor do such payments compensate for the taking of at -risk species. As a result of the damage to the environment and the continuing fire threat we urge SCE to implement means for effective fire prevention and to minimize threats to wildlife in the Preserve. Potential solutions might include (1) increasing the gaps between conductors and grounds, (2) clearing vegetation below power lines, (3) insulating conductors, (4) undergrounding conductors where geologically feasible, and/or (5) rerouting lines outside the Preserve. With respect to avian threats, which are well documented and studied and which some speculate was the cause of the most recent fire in the Preserve, the short length of gaps between conductors and ground on the McCarrell Canyon transmission lines represents a serious design flaw. Wings of raptors are clearly able to span the gaps. The issue is not only the fire threat but the impact to the birds themselves. The Edison Electric Institute, which describes itself as The Association of Shareholder -owned Electric Companies (SCE is a member), has established The Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC.org) which addresses this issue. In the report "Suggested Practices for Avian Protection on Power Lines: The State of the Art in 2006" ( htt ://www.a: lic.or /u loads/files/2643/Su este(iPract.ices2006 .1..R.-2 . df ), issues are summarized and effective technical remediations are described. The document summarizes the legal mandate to avoid takings of listed migratory species including hawks, owls, crows and others covered by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (1918 amended 1972). The APLIC report describes "avian -safe" power pole configurations that are designed to minimize bird electrocution risk by providing sufficient separation between individual phase conductors and between conductors and grounds. If such separation cannot be provided, exposed parts should be insulated to reduce electrocution risk. Examples are provided of successful programs that have been implemented by member utilities. The current configurations of McCarrell Canyon transmission lines do not meet conditions for avian -safe designs. We urge SCE to consult with experts to develop and implement effective solutions to prevent these frequent fires and mitigate the biological impacts of power lines. We look forward to hearing from you regarding actions taken on the part of SCE to address the issue. Please respond to John Wessel (email wesselj@cox.net) for follow-up on this topic. Sincerely, Alfred Sattler Executive Committee Chair Palos Verdes -South Bay Regional Group Sierra Club cc: Rancho Palos Verdes City Council Rancho Palos Verdes City Manager Carolyn Lehr Assistant Fire Chief Barry Nugent, Los Angeles County Fire Department P.O Box 2464 - Palos Verdes Peninsula, California 90274 QPrinted on Recycled Paper From: cicoriae@aol.com Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 12:15 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: City Council Agenda for Tuesday, February 21 Mayor Misetich and Council Members, On the City Council meeting agenda for Tuesday, February 21, are a number of matters of interest to me. Abalone Cove Shoreline Park Abalone Cove Shoreline Park is the gateway to the beach, tide pools, and trails below and beyond the bluff -top park. It is also an area to be enjoyed in its own right for the stunning views and opportunity for easy access to nature. Unfortunately, it seems that we have scraped the bluff top clean of natural vegetation and allowed the parking area to serve as a dumping ground, all of which detracts from the natural beauty of the area. I support the City appropriating matching funds for the approximately $300,000 LWCF grant to improve this park. Our City has been the fortunate beneficiary of public gifts of funds and parkland in the past and with those grants came responsibilities. This grant gives us an opportunity to meet our responsibilities for park upkeep at reduced cost to the City. It's unlikely that we'll have another opportunity such as this for many years. This park doesn't require a lot of "stuff" to make it more inviting. Indeed, too much "stuff" here would be a detriment. The proposed improvements for the most part (not so sure about "art nodes") would enhance the site and the public's ability to enjoy the site's natural wonders—better trails, picnic tables, low growing shade trees, and natural vegetation. I also think that you should consider this an opportunity to move or conceal the unsightly propane tanks along PV Drive South and consider installing an automated parking system so that we can enjoy the park from dawn to dusk. Southern California Edison I'm glad to see the proposed letter to SCE encouraging implementation of measures to reduce power outages also mentions the impacts the frequent fires have on habitat areas. The California Public Utilities Commission recently (January 2012) adopted rules to address the frequency of fires across California. It seems to me, however, that the rules focus on public safety and structure protection (obviously important, too) and balancing that against costs associated with improvements in utility infrastructure. While some of the rules may be helpful in reducing the threat to habitat areas, for example by requiring more frequent inspections of poles and lines, the rules and discussion are silent on the impacts to biological resources as well as any requirement for mitigation when impacts do occur. It's important to raise the awareness that the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve represents an enormous investment of public and private funds to protect coastal sage scrub habitat precisely because it was at risk of disappearing. These frequent fires threaten that habitat and that investment. SCE can and should do better. Rancho Palos Verdes Beach 01Fc .3 2/2()/212 % � � I'd like to commend City staff on the background work done on the pros and cons of creating a public dog beach at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach. It's a difficult issue. On the one hand, it's nice to see dogs and people outdoors enjoying the sun and surf together. On the other hand, there are legitimate safety and other concerns as outlined in the staff report. My use of this beach is limited to walking across it on my way from one trail to another. My personal experience with dogs running loose on this particular beach is that a few are not a problem but as the numbers increase so does the feeling of trepidation. My children are now grown, but past experiences (not at this beach) with large off -leash dogs bounding toward them when they were small and terrifying them has influenced me to always leash my own dogs. If you're inclined to approve dogs off leash at this beach, I hope you'll establish strict limits on the number of dogs permitted at any given time. Last, I hope you'll give each of those with an opinion on these topics an opportunity to voice their views. It may make for a lengthy meeting, but, as we've seen in the past, the manner in which an issue is handled can be as important as the ultimate decision to the well-being of the community. Thank you for your time. Eva Cicoria 2/20/2012 Oad From: dena friedson [dlfriedson@gmail.com] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2012 10:14 PM To: CC@rpv.com; Ara M; dlfriedson@gmail.com Subject: Grant for Abalone Cove To: Mayor Anthony Misetich and all Members of the City Council and To: Ara Mihranian From: Dena Friedson -- (dlfriedsonCgmail.com) Re: Abalone Cove Grant Learning about the grant for Abalone Cove was really good news. It is a pleasure to support staff's request for matching funds to make improvements that are consistent with the 1975 General Plan Land Use Map's designation of passive recreation. It is important to protect the tide pools of the State Ecological Reserve at the base of the cliffs. Congratulations! From: cicoriae@aol.com Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 12:15 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: City Council Agenda for Tuesday, February 21 Mayor Misetich and Council Members, On the City Council meeting agenda for Tuesday, February 21, are a number of matters of interest to me. Abalone Cove Shoreline Park Abalone Cove Shoreline Park is the gateway to the beach, tide pools, and trails below and beyond the bluff -top park. It is also an area to be enjoyed in its own right for the stunning views and opportunity for easy access to nature. Unfortunately, it seems that we have scraped the bluff top clean of natural vegetation and allowed the parking area to serve as a dumping ground, all of which detracts from the natural beauty of the area. I support the City appropriating matching funds for the approximately $300,000 LWCF grant to improve this park. Our City has been the fortunate beneficiary of public gifts of funds and parkland in the past and with those grants came responsibilities. This grant gives us an opportunity to meet our responsibilities for park upkeep at reduced cost to the City. It's unlikely that we'll have another opportunity such as this for many years. This park doesn't require a lot of "stuff" to make it more inviting. Indeed, too much "stuff here would be a detriment. The proposed improvements for the most part (not so sure about "art nodes") would enhance the site and the public's ability to enjoy the site's natural wonders—better trails, picnic tables, low growing shade trees, and natural vegetation. I also think that you should consider this an opportunity to move or conceal the unsightly propane tanks along PV Drive South and consider installing an automated parking system so that we can enjoy the park from dawn to dusk. Southern California Edison I'm glad to see the proposed letter to SCE encouraging implementation of measures to reduce power outages also mentions the impacts the frequent fires have on habitat areas. The California Public Utilities Commission recently (January 2012) adopted rules to address the frequency of fires across California. It seems to me, however, that the rules focus on public safety and structure protection (obviously important, too) and balancing that against costs associated with improvements in utility infrastructure. While some of the rules may be helpful in reducing the threat to habitat areas, for example by requiring more frequent inspections of poles and lines, the rules and discussion are silent on the impacts to biological resources as well as any requirement for mitigation when impacts do occur. It's important to raise the awareness that the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve represents an enormous investment of public and private funds to protect coastal sage scrub habitat precisely because it was at risk of disappearing. These frequent fires threaten that habitat and that investment. SCE can and should do better. Rancho Palos Verdes Beach 2/20/2012® I'd like to commend City staff on the background work done on the pros and cons of creating a public dog beach at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach. It's a difficult issue. On the one hand, it's nice to see dogs and people outdoors enjoying the sun and surf together. On the other hand, there are legitimate safety and other concerns as outlined in the staff report. My use of this beach is limited to walking across it on my way from one trail to another. My personal experience with dogs running loose on this particular beach is that a few are not a problem but as the numbers increase so does the feeling of trepidation. My children are now grown, but past experiences (not at this beach) with large off -leash dogs bounding toward them when they were small and terrifying them has influenced me to always leash my own dogs. If you're inclined to approve dogs off leash at this beach, I hope you'll establish strict limits on the number of dogs permitted at any given time. Last, I hope you'll give each of those with an opinion on these topics an opportunity to voice their views. It may make for a lengthy meeting, but, as we've seen in the past, the manner in which an issue is handled can be as important as the ultimate decision to the well-being of the community. Thank you for your time. Eva Cicoria 2/20/2012 February 17, 2012 Carokx1n Pe1rV City VfRancho Palos Verdes 30940Hawthorne Blvd. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Dear Ms. Petru, On behalf of Trump National Golf Club Los Angeles, we would like for you to consider our strong opposition to the potential dog beach below our property. Being that we are the property that has been directly affected by the existing problems with dogs and some careless owners, VYecannot imagine the complete disaster just waiting to happen when you are inviting more dogs and their owners tomake their way tothe dog beach via our golf course. Tuhave agolf course beagateway for owners and their dogs }sa complete safety hazard and a major liability tothe City ofRancho Palos Verdes. To saturate an already crowded golf course is implausible. We host 100 golfers a day/ over 12OfWo|hsrsontheweekends/vVedd|ngsof25OfgWegts,restaurantmvvh|chboostover 300 guests daily, not to mention the 85 golf carts vvh|oh roam /n various locations around our property. Furthermore, what image are you creating when the city books wedding in Founder's Park and you have an Increase in off -leash dogs running around and potentially biting someone ordisrupting someone's special day? There are somany issues that we see everyday and our observations depict the reality of the existing dangers and the potential liability tothe City ofRancho Palos Verdes. Our staff is here on m daily basis and our staff sees firsthand the issues that already exist with some careless dog owners and their dogs. Some owners are very careful and we vv|mh all of them could be that way. In actuality, a lot are not. We have noticed an increase in such things asdogs without leashes, sanitation issues, dogs fighting, bites and major Injury to noeldmnta frequenting the park. For example, last month, o 3 year old child was nearly knocked down by a dog that made its way up the trail into the park and started running after her while she was playing with a ball. And just two xvaeke ago, an owner of dog on a leash was bitten by an off -leash dog. The dug owners don't In care about being ticketed. When someone's safety is put at risk, a ticket won't be the solution. In regards to the sanitation issue, although we supply the doggy waste bags all over the trails, we see and have to clean dog waste throughout the park and now on the trails leading to the park. Another major point is that we are not equipped for parking. Ocean Trails Drive is now filled from top to bottom, on both sides on weekdays and weekends. We cannot imagine the increased traffic, not only on PV Drive, but down our narrow driveway. With this increase of traffic, where are we parking our guests on the weekend? Where are the golfers parking, the wedding guests, banquet guests, restaurant patrons? With the already crowded driveway and parking lots, there will be no parking spaces at all. It places the burden on us and our staff. As a result, we have to increase our staff to be available to park cars on dirt lots. I do not think that our regulars and the local residents who have been dining with us for years and sharing their special events with us would appreciate this. Additionally, the small public lot reaches its capacity very quickly on the weekdays and the weekends and will not suffice in order to handle the additional traffic. In that light, the public lot will also be closed during the year for events such as the Palos Verdes Concours De Elegance and our Wine and Beer Festival, (where a portion of the proceeds go to the PV Land Conservancy) Imagine park guests not having access to their dog beach. It doesn't make sense. Why? Because we are a business; not just a business, but a golf course with guests, events, banquets, restaurants, open 364 days a year, 7 days a week. There is constant, major activity here at our property, Another point is that the area where the dog and dog owner have to cross to get down to the beach is already a danger. The crossing that the dog and dog owners have to get down to the park is meant for golf cart traffic. There have been close calls with running dogs and dogs off leash that were nearly hit. Not only can the dogs get injured but this could lead to injury to our golfers and our maintenance staff who roam in golf carts as well. Our staff and their time are being greatly affected. We get calls daily about feces, dogs fighting, dogs off leash and recently dead dogs on the beach. Of course, they don't initially call the city. They call us. It is interfering with the time we have to deal with our business. We will no longer police these issues. In closing,no matter how many controls you have, the ability to have a dog beach will bring residents from all over the counties and cities who are not familiar with the residents of this city, the neighborhoods in and around our property,and lastly the care and safety that we all have for Founder's Park and our property. Safety, liability, lack of parking, negative effects on our business and sanitation are important and crucial reasons why we are opposed to the potential dog beach. A dog beach should be equipped with the appropriate parking and enough space for owners to easily get down to the beach; like many dog beaches all around LA and Orange County and not to experience the potential hazards we have here at our golf course. It is not only a golf course but a thriving business in a great community that gets busier day after day. We ask for the city to not allow a dog beach below our property. General Manager From: TheBucks5@aol.com Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 10:21 AM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Trump Dog Park Please no dog park at this beach. There are reasons why dogs are not allowed on state park beaches. Please consider these reasons. We who frequent this beach has seen the number of dogs grow in just this last year. 2/20/2012 From: rmoine@aol.com Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 10:43 AM To: parks@rpv.com; cc@rpv.com Subject: rpv dog park would like to see the "trump beach" become an official dog park. I use it occasionally and it is not very desirable and used by sun bathers, surfers, or swimmers. It is priceless to have this available for some of our "best friends". If the north end is used by them maybe just that end could be designated for the surfers, etc. Let's keep everyone happy. We are blessed to live in such a beautiful area. Let's keep it available for all. thanks, Rachel Moine Torrance, CA 310.9381980 2/20/2012 From: Nancy_Thompson@ea.epson.com Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 11:17 AM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog park below Trump National Golf Course Dear Council and Parks/Recreation Members, am all in favor of designating the beach park below Trump National Golf Course as an off -leash dog park. People have been "unofficially" using the beach this way for quite a while and we have never had a problem with it when we walk through the area. The dogs and their owners have been responsible about clean-up and it is a lot of fun to watch them play. I also think it is a good idea to have a formal area for this purpose so other beaches can more easily be designated "no dog" zones. Thanks very much for your consideration, Nancy Thompson Rancho Palos Verdes 2/20/2012 K From: Mike and Louise [MandLinRPV@msn.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 12:24 PM To: RPV City Council Cc: parks@rpv.com Subject: NO to off -leash dogs at RPV Beach Dear RPV City Councilmembers, Thank you for giving us an opportunity to express our feelings about how to better our experience when we visit the RPV Beach below the Trump development. We try to enjoy it at least once a week but have found ourselves avoiding weekends as there are too many un -leashed dogs running around without, it seems, any supervision. Most and foremost it is a safety issue, as we get quite concerned when an excited dog heads toward us. We do love dogs but have learned from past experience that one should not trust an unfamiliar dog charging toward you. Children are especially vulnerable! As for us we carry walking sticks now but have sometimes wondered if we should also carry pepper spray of some sort (assuming it is legal?). The beach rocks can be quite hazardous when one is trying to enjoy the tide pools as well as the narrow trails up and down the cliff. My wife once almost fell off the trail when she saw an unattended dog charging towards her. Our second big concern is regarding sanitation. During our visits we've noticed that owners of un -leashed dogs often pretend they did not see their dog using our beautiful beach as a bathroom and make no attempt to pick up after them. Those owners who keep their dogs on a leash usually come prepared to deal with that issue. Please keep RPV's most precious beach safe and clean for all to enjoy by requiringthat at dogs be kept on a leash at all times. Thank you in advance for your consideration of this very important item. Mike and Louise Shipman 3948 Admirable Dr. RPV, CA 90275 2/20/2012 From: jell richards [richards2000@msn.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 12:54 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Dogs off -leash at Rancho Palos Verdes beach below Trump Dear Council - Several of the homeowners on Colt Road support allowing dogs off -leash at RPV beach and we believe this would be a positive move to enhance the community spirit. Jeff Richards President, Colt Road Association 310-547-9445 2/20/2012 3 From: SWDOZAR@aol.com Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 2:54 PM To: parks@rpv.com Cc: cc@rpv.com Subject: dog beach I can't believe the uproar over people walking their dogs... Perhaps the elite that live in our neighborhood ( I live on Searaven Dr.) really are talking about the PEOPLE who they don't want coming into their neighborhood. Trust me I never see thousands of people here not even when Trump have their Auto show. Stop being We are better than they are. Get a Life!!!! 2/20/2012 0 From: kathy labarbera [kathy.labarbera@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 3:32 PM To: parks@rpv.com; cc@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach OPPOSITION To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to you with great concern with the changes I have seen happening to the beach below Trump's golf course. Since the city has taken over this part of the coastline and deemed it a trial dog beach without any rules and regulations, it has become a nightmare for many. Some days there have been over 25 off leash dogs on this beach, with about three quarters of them invading the private community of the Portuguese Bend Club and their club members, portions of which are up to a mile away from the deemed trial dog beach. Rarely, does anyone stay within the so called boundaries of the beach that the city has taken over. There are no signs posted anywhere that this is a trial dog beach and there is no one at said beach to monitor any problems when they have been occurring, and yet people have been coming to enjoy this dog beach, as posted all over the internet and documented, as far away as 50 miles. I do not understand why the city of Rancho Palos Verdes would want to open this, one of only several natural - occurring sandy beaches in all of Rancho Palos Verdes, to an unregulated, second only dog beach in all of Los Angeles county where ten million people live. After reading the minutes from the August 16, 2011 and the December 20, 2011 council meetings, this beach area clearly does not meet the criteria as set forth in your guidelines nor any other guidelines at other dog beaches or dog parks in California. I think that the city is being quite negligent in letting what is happening down there continue each and every day without any public postings, fencing, monitoring and especially since it does not fit the criteria that the council so voted on at the December 20th meeting. Every dog beach and dog park has rules and regulations in place to protect the people, dog owners and their dogs. This area is no longer safe for any one group, including dogs, it is out of control on any given nice weather day. I have found that the cons far outweigh any pros that a dog beach would provide here. People have been jumped on by a wet dogs. A friend of mine had an off leash dog run out of the bushes on the bluff top of Trump's trails and take her down. As a resident of the Portuguese Bend Club, I have had my fair share in the last several months with some disrespectful dog owners and their dogs. They do not stay on the trial dog beach, but walk up to a mile away with off leash dogs to the private beach adjacent to the trial dog beach. And I also know of a beach member who was bitten by a dog while she was 2/20/2012 0 enjoying her family day at the beach. I have reminded dog owners that they are on a private beach and have pointed out to them where the trial dog beach is located, only to be ignored. Why should the only people who have homes on the beach in all of Rancho Palos Verdes have these confrontations with people who are clearly breaking the law? A trial run is suppose to show how it would work if it was to become legal, and this trial is not working and this dog beach should not become a reality. The idea of a dog beach here sounds great, but the reality of it is a nightmare. Please don't give the coastline to the dogs. Additionally, there are dogs running on and around the tidepools, disturbing the natural habitat there. I'm sure the environmental groups will not be happy once they realize the disruptive damage the dogs are causing. For the record, I LOVE DOGS! And have taken dogs to that beach in the past. But it has gotten out of hand. I will not bring my dog there any longer do to the number of dogs there, and the disruptive culture that now exists. By the way, there is not only dog feces being left on the beach, but human feces as well. This is becoming quite a health hazard on top of it all. Thank you, Kathy LaBarbera 108 Spindrift Dr. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 http://www.yelp.com/biz/founders-park-rancho-palos-verdes http://www.yelp.com/bizlocean-trails-b -trump-national-golf-course-rancho-palos-verdes http://www.in-and-around-los-angeles.com/los-an elg es-dog-beach-rancho-palos-verdes.html Trump Dog Beach facebook page Google "pros and cons of dog parks" www.dogpark.com --- will find suggested rules and regulations to protect all. Rosie's Dog Beach, the only legal dog beach in all of Los Angeles County, is coned and monitored with many rules and regulations to protect people, dog owners AND their dogs. Each dog must be under the control of an adult and only one dog per adult is permitted. The dog must be under visual and voice control by owner/guardian at all times. Dogs that do not respond to voice commands are not permitted. Children shall be accompanied by an adult and shall not run, shout, scream, wave their arms, or otherwise excite or antagonize dogs. No food of any kind is permitted in the dog area during the designated hours. These are only a few, fairly common rules at any dog park or dog beach and clearly none of these rules can be enforced by the city of Rancho Palos Verdes for an off 2/20/2012 O -Z leash dog beach below Trump's to protect all. 2/20/2012 From: Cory Johnson [coryology_101 @yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 3:38 PM To: cc@rpv.com Cc: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach... No thank you Dear R.P.V City Council I am writing to you with great concern regarding the proposed dog beach below Trump National golf course. Unfortunately since the city has taken over this part of the coastline and deemed it a trial "Dog Beach"void of rules or regulations, the beach is no longer safe for visitors, native species or dogs. With word spreading quickly through out Southern California and visitors coming from up to 100 miles away, the days of a few people/dogs upon the beach is being swept away by thousands of people and hundreds of dogs rotating through this sensitive habitat. Not only is this use of city property in violation of city ordinances and therefore illegal, this de facto dog park is adversely effecting the local community's safety, it's also directly impacting the endangered Gnat Catchers habitat, Cactus Wren, Live Forever succulent as well as native sea life that call these shores home. I do not understand why the city of Rancho Palos Verdes would want to open one of the few natural -occurring sandy beaches in all of Rancho Palos Verdes, to an unregulated dog beach (only 1 of 2) in all of Los Angeles County where ten million people live? After reading the minutes from the August 16, 2011 and the December 20, 2011 council meetings, this beach area clearly does not meet the Dog Park Site Criteria as set forth in your guidelines nor any other guidelines at other dog beaches or dog parks in California. Every dog beach and dog park has rules and regulations in place to protect the people, dog owners and their dogs. If the City does develop and 2/20/2012 ld./ implement rules and regulations for a Dog Beach, who will enforce them and where will funding come from? This area is no longer safe for any one group, including dogs; it is out of control on must days with good weather and is routinely left trashed. I would like to have a choice as to whether my family or I have to walk by an off leash Pit Bull, Doberman Pincher or German Shepherd, dog/human feces and I no longer do. I have found that the cons far outweigh any pros that a dog beach would provide here. As an unintentional trial run, the current situation shows us how the beach would work, currently this trial gets an "F" for negligence. The idea of a dog beach here sounds great, but the reality of it is a nightmare. With no emergency access, enforcement, lifeguards, fences, signage or rules this is not an appropriate place for a dog beach. Please respect the local community and environment by saying NO to the R.P.V dog beach. Sincerely, Cory Johnson 2/20/2012 0 From: goideegail@cox.net Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2012 5:13 PM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Fwd: Emailing: Get Involved - Help Save Rancho Palos Verdes Shores .... htm Attachments: SENDER_EMAILgoldeegail@cox@@net. png; 05_puppy_sticky_note_en.gif i SEN DER_EMAILgold 05_puppy_sticky_n eegail@cox@@ne... ote_en.gif (4... > Dear R.P.V City Council > > I am writing to you with great concern regarding the proposed dog beach > below Trump National golf course. Unfortunately since the city has taken > over this part of the coastline and deemed it a trial "Dog Beach" void > of rules or regulations, the beach is no longer safe for visitors, > native species or dogs. With word spreading quickly through out > Southern California and visitors coming from up to 100 miles away, the > days of a few people/dogs upon the beach is being swept away by > thousands of people and hundreds of dogs rotating through this sensitive habitat. > Not only is this use of city property in violation of city > ordinances and therefore illegal, this de facto dog park is adversely > effecting the local community's safety, it's also directly impacting > the endangered Gnat Catchers habitat, Cactus Wren, Live Forever > succulent as well as native sea life that call these shores home. I > do not understand why the city of Rancho Palos Verdes would want to > open one of the few natural -occurring sandy beaches in all of Rancho > Palos Verdes, to an unregulated dog beach (only 1 of 2) in all of Los Angeles County where ten million people live? > After reading the minutes from the August 16, 2011 and the > December 20, > 2011 council meetings, this beach area clearly does not meet the Dog > Park Site Criteria as set forth in your guidelines nor any other > guidelines at other dog beaches or dog parks in California. Every dog > beach and dog park has rules and regulations in place to protect the > people, dog owners and their dogs. If the City does develop and > implement rules and regulations for a Dog Beach, who will enforce them > and where will funding come from? This area is no longer safe for any > one group, including dogs; it is out of control on must days with good weather and is routinely left trashed. > I would like to have a choice as to whether my family or I have > to walk by an off leash Pit Bull, Doberman Pincher or German Shepherd, > dog/human feces and I no longer do. I have found that the cons far > outweigh any pros that a dog beach would provide here. Cl) 3 > As an unintentional trial run, the current situation shows us > how the beach would work, currently this trial gets an "F" for > negligence. The idea of a dog beach here sounds great, but the reality > of it is a nightmare. With no emergency access, enforcement, > lifeguards, fences, signage or rules this is not an appropriate place > for a dog beach. Please respect the local community and environment by saying NO to the R.P.V dog beach. > Sincerely, Gail Dime 132 Sea Urchin Lane R.P.V., Ca 90275 > Help Save R.P.V Beach from becoming LA County's only official "Dog Beach" > Help our community oppose the possibility of this becoming a > sanctioned dog beach by making your voice heard. > R.P.V council is currently gathering feedback from local community to make a > ruling Feb -March, 2012... PLEASE ACT NOW!!! > WRITE council members at cc@rpv.com > WRITE Parks and Recreation at parks@rpv.com > Or > CALL Katie (point person for issue) at 310 544-5260 > WRITE RPV City Hall at: > Dog Beach Project Manager > Parks and Recreation Dept. > 30940 Hawthorne Blvd. > RPV, CA 90275 > Please come to city hall meetings when scheduled. > 2 > Create a free website with Weebly C3 ) From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2012 2:01 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: In Favor of Dog Beach! From: Juliette Phipps [mailto:juliette.phipps@gmail.com] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2012 9:56 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: In Favor of Dog Beach! My husband and I live on Stalwart Drive in Rancho Palos Verdes and we were so excited to hear that a dog beach might finally come to our neighborhood. We had always wanted there to be a dog beach or park walking in distance since the closest is so far. We were so jelous of other communities that had the luxury of a dog beach or park. We are concerned that people with dogs in the neighborhood didn't get a notice about this, and that mainly people against the beach got notices. We asked two friends in the neighborhood if they had gotten the flyer about the potential dog beach and they said no. We thought that since our old dog hasn't been living with us that people handing out the flyers may have thought non dog owners would be in favor. So, I just hope people with dogs have been notified about this matter too. Having a dog beach would be great since it might encourage dog owners to take their dogs out, thus causing more exhausted and quiet dogs instead of barking bored dogs. It is also a pro to have this park since families can now take their dogs out more freely making RPV a more family fun environment. We are definitely for the dog beach/ park and are sad to see that some are not. Sincerely, Hermens-Phipps Residence 2/20/2012 3 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2012 2:04 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog attack - Founders Park Beach From: bahgsu jewels [mailto:bahgsu@gmail.com] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2012 8:30 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog attack - Founders Park Beach To whom it may concern, I recently ventured out to the Founders Park Beach- Below Trump Golf course and much to my dismay came across a full blow dog park. This dog beach is dangerous and illegal. I was almost attacked by a german shepherd while taking a stroll. This dog was clearly excited by the 30 or so other dogs off leash and fully charged me. Luckily I saw it coming and and was able to yell and wave my hands wildly to discourage his charge. It was a terrifying experience. I own a dog, am fully open to dog parks and believe they can be great for animal and owner. This beach however has no toilets, no signs, no emergency access and not even legal. Due to my incident I researched this area further and found that it is even home to many endangered species who are currently under threat. This beach used to be safe for children and families. Now it is littered with dog feces and dangerous animals. Please share my story with others and outlaw this dangerous place. Thanks, Maggie Orli 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2012 2:04 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: RPV Beach From: Pisano, George [mailto: George. Pisano@wilsonelser.com] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2012 8:20 AM To: parks@rpv.com. Subject: RPV Beach My name is Lucy. I am a 2 year old Boston Terrier. I live with my owners in RPV. I wanted to let you know that RPV Beach is just about my favorite place in the whole world. Although I don't like going in the water, I'm always up for getting my feet wet and racing the waves back to shore. My owners like it too. It is the only place where we can play and exercise together near the shore and enjoy the benefits of living in a great place like RPV. I am told that a lot of great cities have dog beaches. What a shame it would be if RPV missed out on the chance to have its own dog beach, forcing my owners to travel long distances just so we could enjoy the beach together. I have noticed a real spirit and sense of community at RPV Beach with all of the dog lovers coming together and sharing a special bond with their pets. Everyone there is very respectful and we all get along well (humans included). I hate to think about what a lonely place RPV Beach would become if dogs were not allowed there. Won't you please vote in favor of changing the existing Ordinance to allow dogs off leash at RPV Beach? I would be grateful to you for the rest of my life. Thank you. Lucy This communication was not intended or written to be used, and it cannot be used by any taxpayer, for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties. (The foregoing legend has been affixed pursuant to U.S. Treasury Regulations governing tax practice.) *********************************************************** CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic message is intended to be 2/20/2012 43 viewed only by the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. It may contain information that is privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. Any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited without our prior permission. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, or if you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by return e-mail and delete the original message and any copies of it from your computer system. For further information about Wilson, Elser, Moskowitz, Edelman & Dicker LLP, please see our website at www.wilsonelser.com or refer to any of our offices. Thank you 2/20/2012 \./ February 17, 2012 Dear Members of the R.P.V City Council: I spent my youth in what is now the City of Rancho Palos Verdes (City) and have been a resident of the Portuguese Bend community for over 30 years. I like to think that I have a good idea of what makes this area such a special place to live in and I am writing to express my deep concern regarding what I believe is a serious threat to our coastal community and quality of life. While I understand and support the City soliciting community input regarding the establishment of a dog park within the City, I find it completely incomprehensible that the City is considering designation of the City owned park land below the Trump National property for such use. This property is clearly unsuitable for a dog park based on the "Dog Park Site Selection Criteria" as described in the City staff report presented at the December 20, 2011 council meeting: Site Conditions/Existing Use Compatibility A dog park at this location does not have "suitable soil and geology" in so far as there is no soil, so the fecal bacteria from animal waste would be discharged directly into the ocean by wave action and the tides. The site is also located below and adjacent to a recently active landslide and therefore the City should not encourage more intensive use. A dog park at the site would in fact "damage natural and cultural resources" and "conflict with other uses". In addition, the site is neither "flat to gentle" nor does it provide "rolling topography". The beach's rock cobble surface is not an "appropriate surface" for dogs or their waste products. Location The site is not "centralized in the community, near the greatest population density" nor where "users congregate". Neighborhood Compatibility The site, if designated as a dog park, does not have a "minimal conflict with neighborhood uses". In fact the presence of a dog park would interfere with or severely restrict the site's passive historic uses, family hiking, swimming, surfing and diving. I grew up swimming and surfing these waters and my son was fortunate enough to do the same. Were the City to create a dog beach at this site, I don't think I could in good conscience let my grandchildren swim in these same waters, for health reasons. This outcome would indeed be a shame, on the City Council for approving the dog park use and on the community for allowing it to happen. Health and Safety There is no existing, or conceivable way to provide "emergency vehicle access" to the site for conventional first responders or their vehicles. There is currently no access for "maintenance crew accessibility". The site does not allow for "good visibility for public surveillance and safety". The increased use precipitated by the City's solicitation for community input regarding a dog beach at the location has created an environment which is currently not a "safe environment for dogs and owners". Amenities/Infrastructure This site also does not meet the "amenities/infrastructure" requirements of the City's site selection criteria, since it does not have "access to utilities (water, power, sewer, phone)" nor does it provide "ease of auto ingress/egress". It is also not "suitable to fence (4'-6' high fence)" or provide the required "associated amenities" such as "shade, seating, drinking fountains or restrooms". Moreover, since the city has assumed ownership and operation of this beautiful stretch of coastline and asked for public input regarding locating a "dog beach" on this pristine beach, the local community has experienced a significant increase in dog and people traffic and the area has become a de facto off leash dog beach. The beach has been very noticeably degraded and is quickly becoming a threat to public safety and health, for people, dogs and native plants and animals. In addition, the proposed dog beach is located within a nature preserve established to protect native plant and animal species and a dog beach is clearly incompatible with the concept of a nature preserve. The current use of this City owned property as an off leash dog park is in violation of City, County and State ordinances (County Code Title 10, Sec 10.32.010, et al) and is clearly illegal. Although I believe that these are unintended consequences of the city's solicitations for input on the establishment of a dog beach at this location, negative consequences are being inflicted on this property every day. The City has a responsibility to enforce applicable statutes, rules and regulations and I request that the City do so at once. It is irresponsible, in my opinion, for the City to let these conditions continue and expose people, dogs and the coastal environment to this potential harm and the City should not expose itself to the liability associated therewith. Were the City to establish a dog park at any location, it would need to establish strict rules in order to comply with City, County and State laws. The City would also need to establish enforcement mechanisms and find the funding necessary for the capital improvements required, the ongoing funding of operating and maintaining the dog park and the enforcement of the dog park's rules and regulations. Whereas considering the establishment of a dog park in RPV is understandable, including this site in the mix for consideration is clearly not. Please eliminate this site from consideration for a City sanctioned dog park/beach at this meeting. Let common sense, public health and safety, the environment and the City's own dog park site selection criteria prevail. Sincerely, Eric Johnson #3 Yacht Harbor Drive Rancho Palos Verdes, CA n From: tiffany lee [leetiffany@yahoo.com] Sent: Friday, February 17, 2012 10:18 PM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rv.com Subject: Re: RPV Dog Beach Dear City Council, We are writing to express our strong opposition to the RPV beach becoming a Dog Beach. It will create havoc in our neighborhood. Since there are no regulations, it will create an unregulated setting for people and their dogs to do whatever they want. More trash and dog feces will be gathered. With an unsanitary setting comes more diseases and illnesses. By allowing a dog beach on our shores, you will take away a safe and peaceful place for the residents and visitors to enjoy. We are strongly against the dog beach being approved! Thank you, Tiffany & Michael Blumenthal Seaview tract, RPV residents 2/20/2012 3 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Saturday, February 18, 2012 12:42 PM To: 'Katie Howe'; 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Tracy Bonano'; 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog Access at Trump Park From: bpcs@aol.com [ma i Ito: bpcs@aol.com] Sent: Saturday, February 18, 2012 12:27 PM To: citymanager@rpv.com Subject: Dog Access at Trump Park Dear Sirs, Re the up -coming meeting Tuesday 21 Feb. to discuss the above topic. I would respectfully like to submit my comments on this subject: This is an extremely important social issue. Dogs as well as humans need proper exercise to be happy, relaxed, sociable and safe beings living in our society. They can only get this by being allowed to run free 'to let off steam'. If humans were kept cooped up in confined spaces, or even worse, tethered on the end of a chain, for days, weeks, months and YEARS on end, wouldn't they soon become frustrated, bad tempered and a menace to society? not to mention out of good health. We force dogs to live in our society, which is not a natural environment for them anyway, but if we want 'sane' - and read safe there - dogs, then they must have some freedom. Have you ever looked into the eyes of a dog who's just returned to you after a romping good gallop? If you have, you know that a million pots of gold won't make you feel happier or more rewarded for having given the dog his chance to freedom. Please, Make that Beach Officially Dog Welcoming and you'll have happy dogs AND happy neighbors! Yours sincerely, Dinah Pelly. ex resident of PVE for 21 years and longtime dog owner. 2/20/2012 From: M and D Richardson [medon@cox.net] Sent: Saturday, February 18, 2012 1:40 PM To: parks@rpv.com Cc: cc@rpv.com Subject: Off Leash Dog Park at RPV Beach I am opposed to the proposal to designate the public beach in front Trump Golf Course as an official beach for off -leash dogs for the following reasons: Because of the increased number of off -leash dogs on the beach, particularly on the weekends, the beach has become a much less inviting, pleasant and safe place for non -dog owners to enjoy. Although most dogs are friendly, it is almost impossible to sit or walk the beach without a dog running over or jumping up. While I like dogs, I don't always want that experience when I'm at a public beach. Many owners also bring multiple dogs off - leash and their ability to control them is a real question. Environmental pollution is also an issue. I regularly see dog feces on the trails leading to the beach. While most owners pick up after their dogs, that does not solve the issue of dog urination polluting the beach and the ocean. Moreover, there are only two areas in the City of RPV designated as public beaches and the City is now considering allocating one of those beaches for dogs. To my knowledge, the City doesn't make special considerations of this nature for any other pet owners. Why do dog owners and dogs (who are not members of the public) merit special public park space? A public beach should be available for the use of the public meaning all of the people. There are many off -leash dog parks in the South Bay where owners can exercise their dogs if they don't have enough space in their own yards. I realize that it's a fun experience to play with your dog on the beach, but it does impact others, not always in a pleasant way. Having read the staff report, I also question the amount of hours estimated for enforcement of the off -leash dog beach. Ten hours a week would barely be adequate for weekend coverage. The public parking lot at Trump is already often full on the weekends. I question how well the City would be able to meet the demand for parking and enforcement if this proposal is approved and the availability of this beach for LA dog owners is publicized. Sincerely, Mary Ellen Richardson 32206 Helm Place Rancho Palos Verdes 1 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Saturday, February 18, 2012 3:17 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog Beach From: Cheryl [mailto:seasidedobiemom@aol.com] Sent: Saturday, February 18, 2012 3:13 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Dear Sirs: I would like to go on record supporting the move to allow Rancho Palos Verdes Beach to officially be labeled as a "Dog Beach"!! Thank you for recognizing the need for a dog beach in the South Bay. I have visited two dog beaches, one in Huntington Beach, the other in Long Beach. I have found them to be well maintained and clean. The majority of owners are responsible, clean up after their dogs, and obey rules designed to prevent problems. Thank you for your consideration, Cheryl Huddle -Ford Redondo Beach, Ca 310-780-1159 2/20/2012 3 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Saturday, February 18, 2012 3:17 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog Beach (off leash dogs at the area below the Trump Golf Course) From: Marty [mailto:mart31@cox.net] Sent: Saturday, February 18, 2012 2:30 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach (off leash dogs at the area below the Trump Golf Course) Dear RPV City Council and Recreation & Parks Director: Let me preface my comments by stating that I am a dog lover and that I have a dog. I am aware of a 'dog beach' in Los Angeles County in Long Beach. That dog beach is open to dogs for limited hours, boundaries are marked, people must clean up after their dogs, and the area is supervised. I am also aware of a 'dog beach' in San Diego County located at the Northern edge of Del Mar. That dog beach has limited hours, rules and supervision. While I sometimes walk to the area below the Trump Golf Course, I do not take my dog because of observing aggressive behavior of some dogs and the trash or back packs that my dog could get into. This area is already a minefield for RPV with no lifeguard for an area known for its riptides and submerged rocks. With no plans to maintain the area there is the potential for it to be spoiled with garbage, plastic bags & containers, etc. There are no sanitation facilities which could lead to people going to the bathroom in the open. The area would not be a good neighbor by allowing trespassers to violate private facilities maintained privately at substantial expense. I respectfully suggest that City Council & Parks Director independently visit the area below the Trump Golf Course (no tour of City officials with publicity) and determine if this area represents the face that RPV wants to present to its residents and visitors. The timing should be when usage is high on a good Saturday and/or Sunday. If RPV designates the area below the Trump Golf Course as a 'dog beach', they will be exposing the City and its residents to potential liability. I urge that the City not allow the area below the Trump Golf Course to be a 'dog beach'. Very truly yours, C. Martin Vincent 126 Spindrift Dr. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 1 2/20/20 2 From: Brad Jungle [bht.jungle@gmail.com] Sent: Saturday, February 18, 2012 7:04 PM To: cc@rpv.com Cc: parks@rpv.com Subject: POTENTIAL DOG BEACH IN RANCHO PALOS VERDES Greetings, I am writing to express my delight and hopes for approval of the off -leash RPV Beach below Trump Golf Course. We have two English Springer Spaniels, that we have been taking down to that beach since Dec 2010 when we found the great open area for dogs to run. Our dogs run non- stop, have learned to swim with amazing grace and power in that water, and are so strong and healthy as a result. We cannot express how grateful we have been to take our dogs, and us, to walk, see, experience the incredible natural changes that occur, and the exercise that has gained our health improvement desires to great ends. Not to mention, that we see other people (adults and children) and dogs that are so friendly and courteous, just because they have the room to run and play all over. Other dog parks are always a place to be on guard for unruly or unfriendly sorts, due to the confines, crowdedness, etc. I even take a Trader Joe's bag with me to hold the stuff I pick up, like trash and plastic debris as I walk along to help keep the beach so beautiful. Lastly, I would even suggest that if a reasonable use fee were to be imposed (like a club dues or something), we would be more than happy to entertain such a notion, as that is how valuable the beach is for us and our dogs. I plan to be at the city councel meeting Tues, 21 Feb. I'm also following your website: http://www.palosverdes.com/rpvlrecreationparks/dog-skate-parks/dog-beach.cfm "gather community input on changing the existing City ordinance to allow dogs off -leash on the newly acquired 5 -acre Rancho Palos Verdes Beach located below Trump National Golf Course and Founders Park." Thank you, THANK YOU AND THANK YOU! Brad and Kari Tapie 28714 Mount Vancouver Court RPV 310-514-8510 2/20/2012 From: EZStevens [erstevens@cox.net] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 9:46 AM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: No Dog Park Attachments: Memo from saveRVPshores.com.pdf Subject: No Dog Park I fully concur with the attached memo. Please oppose an RPV dog beach. Barbara Stevens 32418 Conqueror Dr Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (1) 2/20/2012 IN Help Save RRV Beach from -)second becoming only "Dog Beach" rw T-110.13 -111;1 ea 4. e Dear Neighbors, our local environment needs your help. Unfortunately this amazing natural preserve is being destroyed daily and is no longer safe for children, beach -goers, native animals or dogs! With numbers now reaching the thousands and dogs in the hundreds on any given day, the solitude this area once provided is soon to be gone. The local environment is being disrespected with human/animal feces/dead dogs and is left trashed daily. There are many local alternatives for dog lovers, such as 500 acres of nature walks and plans for a regulated dog park in Palos Verdes. Please consider the impact that thousands of people will have upon this stretch of coast if word continues to spread throughout Southern California via Internet reviews, word of mouth, etc.... Help our community oppose the possibility of this becoming a sanctioned dog beach by making your voice heard. RRV council is currently gathering feedback from local community to make a ruling Feb -March, 2012... PLEASE ACT NOWH! By writing council members at ccPrpv&o__m Parks and rec - 12arksPWv.com or Katie 310 544-5260 Or write RPV City Hall - 30940 Hawthorne Blvd, 90275 And please come to city hall meetings when scheduled. For more info on the issue visit www.saveRPVshores.com 4. e Dear Neighbors, our local environment needs your help. Unfortunately this amazing natural preserve is being destroyed daily and is no longer safe for children, beach -goers, native animals or dogs! With numbers now reaching the thousands and dogs in the hundreds on any given day, the solitude this area once provided is soon to be gone. The local environment is being disrespected with human/animal feces/dead dogs and is left trashed daily. There are many local alternatives for dog lovers, such as 500 acres of nature walks and plans for a regulated dog park in Palos Verdes. Please consider the impact that thousands of people will have upon this stretch of coast if word continues to spread throughout Southern California via Internet reviews, word of mouth, etc.... Help our community oppose the possibility of this becoming a sanctioned dog beach by making your voice heard. RRV council is currently gathering feedback from local community to make a ruling Feb -March, 2012... PLEASE ACT NOWH! By writing council members at ccPrpv&o__m Parks and rec - 12arksPWv.com or Katie 310 544-5260 Or write RPV City Hall - 30940 Hawthorne Blvd, 90275 And please come to city hall meetings when scheduled. For more info on the issue visit www.saveRPVshores.com Con's to Propose' R.P. V- Dog .Beach - No longer safe for children, beach -goers, native environment or dogs. - Heavy impact on local sea life and surrounding hillside environment. Including the Endangered Gnatcatcher habitat, Endangered Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly, Live Forever succulent, protected Cactus Wren, Sea Lions, Pelicans, Hawks, and a slew of other native plants and animals that call these tide pools and hills home. - Concern for health issues & possible spread of disease. -Illegal — all dogs must be on a 6 ft leash according to R.P.V municipal code 6.20.0 10 as well as LA County Ordinance, also meets little to none of the Dog Park Site Selection Criteria defined by city council on 8/16/2011 meetings. - Greater Los Angeles County also prohibits dogs on any beach, why should this be an exception? Currently Rancho Palos Verdes beach has none of the following - No Lifeguard = possible drowning - No vehicular access = slow first response in case of emergency - No trash cans = trashed preserve - No regulations = chaotic setting - No bathrooms = human/dog feces = disease - No signage = do as you please attitude No dog beach = A safe enjoyable place for residents, visitors and local environment. Please visit www.saveRPVshores.com for more info on effected environment, dog park info, city hall meetings, and help share your stories. -Click upon the "Get Involved" tab. Copy and paste the sample letter to city council, add your name / address, comments and send directly to City Council. These letters make a big difference, thank you for helping support our shores. J From: Carl Stammerjohn [cstammerjohn@gmail.com] on behalf of Carl Stammerjohn [woodworkeres@pobox. com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 11:30 AM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Feedback To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to voice my support for the dog beach below the Trump Golf Course. I have taken our dogs there for several years and really appreciate the opportunity to let them run and explore the beach. There are so few areas like this available, at the.beach or elsewhere (the soccer fields at Ladera Linda have been locked out for over a year now). The closest open area for dogs of which I'm aware is the very small dog park at the LA Harbor. Further away, the Redondo Beach dog park and Long Beach parks are available, but not nearly as convenient. I have been made aware of complaints that dog owners do not pick up after their dogs. In my experience „ I cannot remember ever seeing dog feces on the beach. I'm sure there is the occasional accident, but it is surely rare. I ALWAYS pick up after my dogs, and everyone else I see with dogs does the same. Considering the number of dogs there on some afternoons, that is quite an accomplishment. The beach is a great and rare resource for us. Please don't take it away. Sincerely, Carl Stammerjohn San Pedro From: Ilka Engelberth Rice [ilkaricel@googlemail.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 4:05 PM To: parks@rpv.com Cc: CC@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Dear City Council Member, I am a long time citizen of Rancho Palos Verdes and was delighted to hear that RPV is considering to make the small stretch of beach below Trump's Golf Course a dog beach. With this email I would like to address some of the common arguments that arise when discussing a dog beach; such as pollution, parking, fairness for all, and the unique remoteness of this very small stretch of beach. Dogs are a very important enrichment to many families here on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Dogs keep people happy, healthy, and in many cases are the only companionship a human has. (4 in 10 US households own a dog, according to the American Pet Products Manufacture Association) Walking a dog on the beach is a very healthy and rewarding experience for the owners and their pets. We have miles and miles of beaches (which are way easier to access then the proposed dog beach) all around us that are just for people and this small stretch of remote beach is an ideal area to exercise a dog and for people to share in the joy of their pets. Parking is adequate for all concerned . Allowing dog owners to use this small stretch of beach with their dogs would enrich their lives tremendously, giving dog owners and their pets a fair and equal chance to experience and enjoy the beach as well. Many dog owners are single and alone and their dog is their only friend. Giving dog owners now the opportunity to also enjoy the nature of our beaches is an enormous enrichment for their lives. The northern part of the proposed dog beach is a small stretch of beach that is primarily accessible by a rather steep, rocky dirt path. This beach is a natural environment in which humans and dogs are able to share this small stretch of beach because of its unique terrain of sand, pebbles, rock, boulders. As it is not a typical flat open sand beach. I have never encountered any dog feces at this beach since the great majority always picks -up after their dog. Dog owners who walk their pets at the beach are as responsible as the dog owners who walk their pets in general. The trash that I have found and picked -up at this beach has always been trash that people have dumped into the ocean; bottles, tennis shoes, fish nets, plastic containers, etc. "According to the U.S . Coast Guard, recreational boaters dump an average of more than one pound of trash into the ocean every time they go out... Coastal sewage systems account for at least I% of ocean debris..."Every year approximately 14 billion pounds of 2/20/2012 D tires, cardboard boxes, plastic cups, bottles, cans, and other trash are dumped into the ocean... The"Great Pacific Ocean Garbage Patch" ..... Source: http://science.howstuffworks.com/great-pacific-garbage-patch.htm Source: http://www.naplesi ov.com/publicworks/solidwaste/education/ rade 9 to 12/beachy clean.pdf The dog pollutants in our oceans are in general not from dogs using a beach since they have not been allowed to use the beaches. As a matter of fact the dog waste that ends up in our water ways is from feces that were not picked -up in parks, streets, and peoples yards! According to the news letter of the Practical Environmentalist, When it rains or the sprinklers turn on, harmful bacteria in pet waste is spread over the surface of your whole lawn. Runoff will carry this bacteria down the storm drains and eventually out to sea. Hosing down drive ways and using fertilizers on our lawns and gardens pose a greater threat to our oceans. The responsibility to keep our oceans free of waste begins in the backyard of dog owners and in that of all people's back yard, as a matter of fact. Please, give nature loving dog owners who would love to walk and enjoy the beach, a chance to proof that they are responsible and do clean up after their pets. Please, give them an equal opportunity to enjoy this small stretch of California beach with their dogs. Thank you! Respectfully, Ilka Rice 30637 Calle de Suenos Rancho Palos Verdes 310 462-4954 2/20/2012 From: Barry [bshapny@aol.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 8:10 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Dogs on Rancho Palos Verdes Beach Dear City Council, I am writing to you to express my opinion regarding dogs being allowed on The Rancho Palos Verdes Beach below Trump National. I am totally in favor of allowing dogs on this beach. For the last few years I have been hiking down to the beach with my family and without a dog. During that time we have enjoyed watching the dogs play in the sand and swim in the ocean. I have also noticed that the majority of the people on that beach are with dogs. We just adopted a dog and this past Saturday brought him to the beach. I cannot express to you how much fun we had and how peacefully all of the dogs interacted with each other. Animals are a big part of our community and dogs are considered family to most Rancho Palos Verdes Residence. What better way to spend time with your spouse or kids than enjoying an afternoon with your dog at the beach. Here are a few points I would like to make that hopefully will allow you to see why the beach should remain open to dogs. • California Civil Code 3342 puts the liability of a dog bite on the owner of the dog whether they are on public property or private property. • If a person wants to use one of our beautiful beaches without the presence of dogs, they have other options. They can use Abalone Cove, Terrenea Beach, The fishing Access and I know there is a few others, I do not remember the names. Most of these beaches have bathroom facility access. • The dog beach (As I call it) below Trump has no bathroom within a reasonable distance from the beach. This makes it an unlikely place or at least more inconvenient than the other beaches for a family to come and spend their day. it makes more sense that dog owners would use the beach as they usually come and go through out the day without spending significant time down there. • If you are receiving complaints from individuals that claim they have been bitten by a dog on that beach, then it should be the Councils obligation to have those persons bring a dog bite report from either the Los Angeles County Animal Control or the Sheriffs Department to prove that the bite actually happened. Anyone can make an accusation when they are trying to bring negative attention to something they do not agree with. • As far as dogs going to the bathroom on the beach, The City can put signs up stating that if you do not clean up after your dog, you would be subject to a hefty fine. • To address the concerns of PBC, you can have signs prohibiting dogs past a certain point as you approach the PBC area. Again this can be enforced with a fine. I am sure that the Council can come up with an amicable solution for both sides. If you need any help from me, please feel free to e-mail me back. Lets keep Rancho Palos 2/20/2012 0 .3 Verdes an animal friendly City Sincerely, Barry Shapiro Rancho Palos Verdes Resident 2/20/2012 Odi T From: Franceen McClung [franceenm@sbcglobal.net] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 9:41 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Rancho Palos Verdes Dog Park Support February 19, 2012 Dear Rancho Palos Verdes City Council, We would like you to consider our support for the use of Rancho Palos Verdes Beach as an off - the -leash dog beach. Although we do not own a dog, we enjoy visiting the beach and seeing others having fun and getting exercise with their dogs. It seems to me that this beach is currently being used as a dog beach with no problems. The dogs seem very well-behaved and the pet owners very responsible and friendly. Having a location near the ocean where people can take their families and dogs is a great asset to the large pet owning community on the peninsula. We can only imagine how fulfilling it is for pet owners to know their dog got a great workout while the entire family had an enjoyable beach experience. We have many beautiful miles of coastline available for people to use on the peninsula and in the South Bay, but nowhere else where dogs can get in the water. With this in mind, we ask you to please let us keep our dog beach. Thank you, Michael and Franceen McClung 1896 Peninsula Verde Drive Rancho Palos Verdes CA 90275 franceenm@sbcglobal.net Phone 310 831-3131 2/20/2012 From: jeff.chavez@verizon.net Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 5:52 AM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Good morning.....1 wanted to add my name to the large list of emails/calls you all have received concerning the proposed pilot program to allow dogs off -leash on the beach below Trump National. I know you have heard from folks on both sides of the fence. From my family's perspective, I can tell you that when we moved to the area ten years ago we were directed by friends to the beach as an area where our dogs could play off -leash. We started going to the beach and did so for years with our dogs. We never saw any signs prohibiting dogs off leash and based on the number of dogs always present never even knew it was prohibited. Once the Sheriff's office started issuing citations last summer we stopped going to the beach. The one thing we never have noticed at the beach are swimmers trying to use the beach, any evidence of dangerous waste or animals aggressive towards humans or each other. Tourists clearly make the trek down the path sometimes but they end up mostly playing with dogs and walking the beach. The beach offers a unique isolated area that not only seems suitable for dogs but really has been used as such for many years. My family would appreciate a pilot project with suitable regulations within the ordinance to quell the fears of those opposed. You might be surprised by the number of folks who would rally to help the City with logistical issues (i.e. upkeep of the beach) should dog owners be welcomed to the area. Thanks for your time Jeff & Olivia Chavez 0 2/20/2012 2/20/12 Re: Dog Park/ Beach Dear Council, Over the last year I have visited the proposed site below the Trump National Golf Course on average 3-4 times a month. I have never witnessed any problems among the dogs there already. I have never "stepped in" anything from the dogs. I have, however, later seen the effects of dogs having "too much fun." Cut pads from tender feet on the sand and rocks, foxtails up the nose from adventures up the hillside and exhaustion from out of shape dogs getting down to the beach but struggling to climb back up. These are probably similar injuries to those seen in people, minus the foxtails up the nose. Dog parks in general are tightly managed and organized. They have rules that must be followed. They typically do not have a "three strikes" policy- one infraction or incident and your dog is out. You might consider having the beach managed by an organization like Peninsula Dog Parks, Inc., much as you have management agreements with other organizations for other purposes. They have a good grasp of what is required and may be able to help control numbers and incidents. If it works out, great, if not, then abandon the idea in this location. Cassie Jones, DVM Point Vicente Animal Hospital Rancho Palos Verdes From: Barbara [barlock4@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 7:52 AM To: CC@Rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Proposed dog beach To Whom It May Concern: I have been a resident of RPV for 45 years and have always enjoyed access to our trails and beaches. Even thought I am not a dog owner, I am in favor of allowing dogs, with or without a leash, on the beach by the golf course. felt compelled to voice my opinion, because there is a flyer circulating that has completely erroneous information. Contrary to what is stated in this flyer, people are very respectful of the environment at the beach. I walk that beach at least twice a week, and there is no litter or feces present. Furthermore, the statement in flyer that there are "thousands of people and hundreds of dogs on any given day" is simply Iudicrous.The weekends are the busiest dog days, and I've never seen more then 20 dogs at any given time, all with responsible owners presents. Again, I am in favor of the area remaining a place that people and their animals can enjoy. Thanks Barbara Locke 2/20/2012 3 From: Gary Randall [grapecon@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 8:41 AM To: cc@rpv.com Cc: parks@rpv.com Subject: No "Dog Beach" in RPV Dear City Council Members: I have reviewed the recently published staff report regarding the proposed "Dog Beach" below Trump Golf Course. While I understand that this will be difficult issue to go thru, I want to point out that the "results" or "facts" presented in the report may be unintentionally biased. My personal story offers why I think this may be the case. 1. 1 live in Ladera Linda, very close to the beach in question. I have lived at this location for 14 years. I have lived in RPV for 40 years. 2. About 10 years ago, my son was attacked by an off leash dog (when he was 5 years old) in a local RPV park and since then has had a phobia of dogs. Fortunately, he did not suffer significant physical injury, but the emotional scars remain. He has Asperger's Syndrome (an Autism Spectrum Disorder). He enjoys the ocean and beach, but is extremely fearful of dogs. He is so fearful that, if approached by a dog, his judgment of other risk factors is impaired. If he is near a street, or near a cliff, he may step into more danger just to avoid the dog. 3. Due to the marked increased in dog usage at the beach below Trump, we as a family have not visited the beach for several years now. What a shame, as it is a beautiful beach and we live walking distance from it. If we want to go to the beach after 4:00 p.m. in the summer, there is no reasonably accessible beach within RPV to go to (Abalone Cove hours of operation in effect, not to mention $5 parking fee when it is open). 4. We were completely unaware that this beach was being proposed as an official "dog beach" until we received a flyer from a local group (not the city) about a week ago. Apparently advertisements have been run in the Daily Breeze and Peninsula News, but we are not subscribers to either paper and were completely unaware of this proposal until last week. 5. 1 understand that signs have been posted at the beach below Trump requesting input on this issue. On the surface, that seems fine. But since my family does not currently use the beach (for the reasons cited above), we did not see nor were aware of those postings. 6. If it were not for the current ILLEGAL activity of dog owners using the beach, we (as a family) would most certainly have been using the beach and would have seen the signs. As such, I consider us to be "current beach users" that have been driven away by the amount of illegal activity that the city has allowed to occur. My point is that, by posting signs asking for input at a beach that has already been "taken over" by irresponsible, non -law abiding people who have driven other users away, the results are skewed towards those in favor of the proposal. My.family is an example of one who fortunately happened to find out about the proposal through means other than the city .... how many other residents are in a circumstance similar to mine and are not aware of this proposal? Is it fair to reward the illegal activities of the activities of current dog owner/users of this beach by giving them a greater voice in the decision? In the staff report, a number of people have included photographs of their dogs running on this beach, apparently in an effort to show how much fun they and their four -legged friends are having .... I urge you to remember that these pictures show the owners engaging in ILLEGAL activity and they are flaunting the city with them. On page 2 of the staff report, the very first point under "Benefits and Strengths" is as follows: Based on the input received to date, there is strong support from the general public for off -leash dog use at RPV Beach. Based on the discussion above, I contend that this statement overstates and oversimplifies the picture and should be heavily discounted, if not ignored, by the City Council at tomorrow night's meeting. In summary, I urge you to be wary of the "results" or "facts" presented in the report. Sincerely 2/20/2012 0 Gary Randall 3512 Heroic Drive Rancho Palos Verdes P.S. It is interesting to note that my wife, Teresa Randall, wrote her own email, using her own separate email address, to the city on the very same day that I did (2/14) and her input AGAINST the dog beach proposal was not included in the staff report. While this may be an honest oversight, I can tell you she is not happy and feels that her taxpaying voice has not been heard. 2/20/2012 From: Donna Baranowski [donnabarano@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 8:46 AM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Potential Dog Park To the Honorable Mayor and City Council members of Rancho Palos Verdes, I hope that you will vote to allow the dog beach to continue to be accessed below Trump Golf course. My family and friends both love this area and we have been going there for several years now. This beach allows dogs and humans to socialize and is the perfect area since it isn't easily accessible to get to so it limits the amount of public that visit so we are not taking over an easily viable beach for everyone. Most people that go there are dog lovers and are so respectful of the area. We appreciate the opportunity we have to enjoy this beach and I have never seen any problems down there at all. As far as the Portuguese Bend Club, I believe there issue is they don't want anyone on this beach, not just dogs. There is a sign that warns not to cross over to the private beach and I have never seen anyone even close to that. We probably walk the furthest (as I am always looking for sea glass) and I have never seen anyone go that far or cross into the private area, including ourselves. I believe the report that "many people are being chased, frightened and attacked by loose dogs" that the President Michael Barth was quoted as saying in the Daily Breeze, is highly exaggerated. Finally, this dog beach brings money to local businesses. We are from South Torrance and every time we go, we frequent the Trader Joe's and the end of Hawthorne Blvd. and the Starbucks. We also go to Malaga Cove for deli goods or to visit the Yellow Vase and the small gift shops. It's also a good excuse to the St. Honore Bakery to "carb up" for our hike down and up. Please consider keeping this wonderful place open to the public and dogs. It is a wonderful place filled respectful people and dogs and I guarantee if you came down to meet the dogs and people, you would agree. Respectfully submitted, Donna Baranowski Jeff Klempan 5261 Zakon Road Torrance, CA 90505 310.562.0669 From: Maureen Moore [maureenmoore@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 8:50 AM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Rancho Palos Verdes City Council Members: Please accept this note to admonish city council members to rescind permission for dog walking at the beach at Ocean Trails. It is unthinkable that dogs would be permitted on such a lovely stretch of clean beach and shoreline........ a rare, natural preserve! Please don't ignore defecation and urine soaked sand where children and play. This filth also seeps into the ocean damaging tide pools. hillsides are also affected by dog walking at this beach. As we understand it, Los Angeles County prohibits dogs on any of the reason and long term experience. Please don't destroy what has been a pure and untouched beach for a should remain that way for generations to come. Yours truly, . Maureen and Stanley Moore 82 Yacht Harbor Drive Rancho Palos Verdes, California and adults walk, sit Native plants and beaches for good very long time and W From: Gary Tavetian [gtavetian@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:03 AM To: cc@rpv.com Cc: parks@rpv.com Subject: dog park As one who does not own a dog, I support permitting dogs to run on the beach area below the Trump golf course without leashes. It is a safe area for the dogs, those who currently allow their dogs to run around do so responsibly, and it makes our walks down to the beach more enjoyable. It seems like a safe area for the dogs and the people. Thanks for your attention. 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:12 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog beach in PV -----original Message ----- From: Stefanie Trutanic [mailto:strutanic@gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 7:26 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog beach in PV I wanted to express some feedback regarding making an official dog beach in RPV. I love the idea of making it official. There are no dog beaches (with the exception of this one) in the South Bay area, the nearest one is at the end of Belmont Shores in Long Beach at least a half hour away. I frequent the dog beach area near Trump Golf Club. It's a great location and I have never witnessed any problems. Plus people will tend to take there dogs off leash anyway, and yet still no problems. It's also another way to keep South Bay residents in the area. I definitely think the rest of the community agree and would love to make it an official off leash dog beach. Thank you. Stefanie Trutainc From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:12 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog Beach by Trump's National Golf Course From: Danielle Whitney [mailto:Danielle.Whitney@TeamWhitney.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 6:06 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Re: Dog Beach by Trump's National Golf Course I would love to keep the beach a dog beach. If leashes are discussed, I suggest a coned off section for "no leashes", so the dogs can run and play. Sincerely, Danielle Whitney, Associate Broker DRE: 01715547 Keller Williams Realty, Rancho Palos Verdes CA Mobile/Text: 310.987.9103 Direct: 310.519.7323 Fax: 888.994.9366 Email: mailto:Danielle.Whitney@TeamWhitney.com Website: http://www.TeamWhitney.com or http://www.FindSanPedroHomes.com X danielle-wl '. Facet i�Xl Linke( X Twitte �x You -T 2/20/2012 From: Yvetta Williams [yvettawill@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:12 AM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: proposed dog beach If all dog owners were responsible it might be a good idea, BUT I have seen too many dog owners who do not pick up after their dogs and let their dogs go up to anyone, with "oh the dog is friendly and won't hurt you". For an older person who is not real steady on their feet or a child, having a dog run up to you, sniff and get in your way it is scary. When walking on a path, sand or dirt it is not nice to step in a pile of doggy do. Even when the owner is told to pick up after the dog, some say, oh, it will go back into the earth. Look at the paths that are already there and see the piles of dog poop. Until dog owners can be responsible it should not be open to dogs off of a leash. Even on the trails, the owners of dogs off of the leash need to be fined or trained to play by the rules. Thank you. Yvetta Williams 3 From: Kathi Wolfrum [Katpbc@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:02 AM To: cc@rpv.com; park@rpv.com Cc: Tudie Johnson; Dr. Kathi L. Wolfrum; Hazard44@aol.com Subject: Re: Dog Beach meeting - R.P.V. City Hall Tues. 2/21/12 7:00 pm Hess Park Dear Friends, Family and the city of Rancho Palos Verdes, With sadness I am oppossed to a Dog Beach below Trump's National Golf Course. I say "with sadness", because I have had many great times there with my own dog. Unfortunately, with the increasing amount of people and dogs it has grown unruly, unsafe, and bad for the coastal environment. I have witnessed a growing amount of trash left on the beach and carried into the water. There is also the fecal matter, both from the dogs and humans. Since there are no trash cans or bathrooms on the beach, it has become a growing problem. Another issue is the increasing danger with the number of dogs running around off leash. You really have to be on guard for yourself and your pet's safety. It is no longer the peaceful stroll that it was. There are often "packs" of dogs running around excitedly together that can be quite intimidating. My younger child has been afraid many times both for herself and our dog. Because of these matters, and the desire to save our pristine coastline, I am willing to sacrifice taking my dog for a walk on the beach. I only see the problem getting worse with time and therefore feel that we need to ban dogs from the area all together for the environment's sake as soon as possible. It is sad, but necessary. With the ocean and our coastline's best interest at heart, sincerely, Kathi Wolfrum A resident of P.B.C. Beach Club for over 20 years R 19 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:16 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dogs on beaches -----Original Message ----- From: Mary Beth[mailto:marybethweedonCgmail.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 2:12 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dogs on beaches Hi, I am a resident of Rancho Palos Verdes. I own a dog and bring her to the beach at the Trump Golf Course at least twice a week. I feel that dogs should be allowed on some beaches. I am a beach lover and hate when the beach is dirty but the beach at the Trump Golf Course is full of people with dogs and not anyone that just wants a beach day. If there is any beach that should be open to dogs, please let this one be the one. Thank you for your time. I look forward to attending the city council meeting on this issue this Tuesday. Mary Weedon Sent from my iPhone 1 3 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:15 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: dogs on the Donald Trump's beach From: Mirza Todorovich [mailto:alpiner@gmail.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 2:19 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: dogs on the Donald Trump's beach Hi, Please let our dogs run free on the beach. I am years long visitor and local resident. I don't see problem letting dogs running and playing freely. Stop controlling everything. Even George Orwell looks like little kid compered to all rules and regulations we have. After all years i am going to the beach and all PV trails i did not see any problems. Thank you Mirza Todorovich 310.200.0626 Torrance, ca Mirza Todorovich photography & graphic design SoCal 310.200.0626 www.li hg talonathecoast.com www.alpiner.net alpiner@gmail.com 2/20/2012 0 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:13 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog beach From: Krystal Saldana [mailto:krystal_saidana@yahoo.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 5:59 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog beach This is a great idea! The nearest dog beach for pv/san Pedro residents is in long beach and fearful dog owners are sometimes hesitant to bring their dogs to this beach and receive tickets since it is technically illegal. Please consider legalizing it as a dog beach. Thank you Sent from Yahoo! Mail on Android 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:14 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: YES on the dog beach!! From: Lorraine Devon Wilke [mailto:devonwilke@aol.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 4:18 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: YES on the dog beach!! Dear City Council: There are so few places where responsible people can bring their dogs and the beach below Trump's Golf Club has been a welcomed and much appreciated oasis for dog -lovers and their pets! It allows families to enjoy time together with their family dog in a somewhat secluded setting away from the resort, free to play catch, roll in the waves, and run around with children and other dogs unfettered by leashes and overly restrictive park rules. We've been bringing our dog there for years and rarely is it crowded; in fact, typically, there are only a few dogs at a time and every time we've been there, the people have been friendly - as have the dogs - and everyone is good about picking up after their dog and making sure rowdier dogs are kept under control. We've never had a problem or witnessed one and we've been there MANY times. As a resident of LA County who lives near the coast, I find it very unfortunate and a little over- reaching on the part of the county, that there are no accommodations made for unleashed or even leashed dogs on the long and varied coastline. Most residents have dogs, and most are very responsible and considerate with them. It seems punitive and restrictive to make all beach property off-limits for supervised dogs because of the potential of trouble with the ill -supervised and badly trained of the species. PLEASE keep this pristine and beautiful place available for people and their unleashed pets! There are so few of those places for dogs to play and run free and this one is precious to those of us who use it and take good care of it when we're there. Don't take away yet another place from that respectful and dog -loving bunch! Thank you, Lorraine Devon Wilke t*Mu. 44 DC004,1 W.:t 310.733.8067 About.me/LorraineDevonWilke 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:17 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Against Requirement of Dog Leash on the Beach by Trump Golf Course From: robertfu2000@aol.com [mailto:robertfu2000@aol.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 1:29 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Against Requirement of Dog Leash on the Beach by Trump Golf Course Hello, I am strongly against requirement of dog leash on the beach by Trump Golf Course, which the city is currently contemplating. Dogs have roamed the earth far longer than the human. We continue to take away their freedom - they cannot run freely in most parks or fields. This beach is one of the very few last places where dogs can enjoy themself. I have taken my dogs there countless times and never seen one dog related incidents. It is the human that creates most of the tension. Hope you all make a sensible, unselfish and fair decision, as you are entrusted to do by the people. Thanks! Regards, Robert Fu 2734 S. Averill Ave., San Pedro, CA 90731 2/20/2012 1-75 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:18 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: dog beach From: randi elasowich [mailto:randiwich@yahoo.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 11:11 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: dog beach I hope you plan on keeping the area where the dogs are not bothering anyone alone. It is a great area to allow the dogs to roam free and splash and play. They are not bothering anyone in that location. I wonder who is making a big deal on trying to shut out the dogs??? It must be non pet owners?? I have been going there for a long time and my dog loves it and I have never seen anyone have a problem with their dog there. My daughter loves it and enjoys running in and out of the water along with the dogs. Please consider allowing it to remain an area where the dogs are allowed to be free and have fun. Randi www.RealEstateByTheBeaches.com 310-415-6023 Most of our business comes from friends and clients like you. Thank you for keeping us in mind... Real Estate License #: 01272345 Search the MILS like a Realtorl tet your free account below: www.FournierandFournier.Listingbook.com 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:18 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog beach -----Original Message ----- From: Naoaki Miura [mailto:naolOnao@hotmail.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 11:11 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog beach The dogs should allow to access the beach. Sent from my iPhone IR From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:19 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Please vote YES on the dog beach. Attachments: Please vote YES on the dog beach. (1.28 KB) From: TM77@aol.com [mailto:TM77@aol.com] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 10:17 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Fwd: Please vote YES on the dog beach. In a message dated 2/19/12 10:08:32 AM, TM77@aol.com writes: Please vote yes on the Dog Beach. I do not have children. My dogs have always been my family. I go to the beach almost every weekend and always have to leave my dog behind. I would like to be able to share my beachtime with my family the way other families do. Thank you for your consideration. Patricia Maduke 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:20 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: The Dog Beach below Trump Golf Course -----Original Message ----- From: Penny Sprague[mailto:pennysprague@sbcglobal.net] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 7:25 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: The Dog Beach below Trump Golf Course Hi, my name is Penny Sprague. I am writing to show my support in the rocky beach area below Trump Golf course being allocated a "dog beach." I will not be able to attend the meeting on February 21st but had to show my support in some way! I have 3 dogs and have been taking them to the dog beach for well over a year now. I have been using the dog beach for longer than that when I just had one dog. We usually go around sunset and I have a glorious time watching my dogs run and play! The joy they show when they get to play by the water is unbelievable! It truly makes them better pets! Please continue to allow dogs on the small stretch of beach. The people and dogs of the PV Peninsula will thank you!!!! Penny Sprague Pennysprague@sbcglobal.net 310-344-5476 3 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:59 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog Beach Opposition From: Richard Merrick [mailto:adixmd@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:26 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Opposition I am Richard Merrick, MD a 41 year resident of RPV. I live at 1979 Galerita Drive, 90275. Phone 310-831- 9748. 1 am adamantly opposed to any no -leash dog areas. We have leash laws for.a reason. Even on leashes, dogs can cause problems. A no -leash dog beach would destroy the beach for general use. Richard S. Merrick a 2/20/2012 From: Steve [stevemikem@prodigy.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 9:42 AM To: cc@rpv.com; parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog beach; No Dear RPV City Council and Parks Department: I hike trails on the peninsula totaling over 300 miles a year and have for many years. My hobbies are trail hiking and ocean-scape photography. Mostly I do this in RPV: Friendship Park, Ladera, Shoreline Park and adjacent Trump. I am chased, threatened, attacked several times a year by dogs off leashes, even with their owners nearby. At some parks like Friendship, 1/3 of the dogs are off leashes. When on the trails getting close to the current dog beach area at Trump, many dogs are off leashes. If you legalize dogs off -leash at this beach it will increase their number on the trails from their cars to the beach. It will attract more people with dogs from surrounding areas. Many owners do not pick up the waste and it will get worse. You will have to send an employee to pick up daily. Please consider these factors when making your decision. I am opposed to the legal dog beach. Thank you Steve Mandich San Pedro. 3 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 10:33 AM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Keep Access to beach open for off leash dogs -----Original Message ----- From: CJ Jack[mailto:cj@webplacementsolutions.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 10:06 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Keep Access to beach open for off leash dogs Please keep the access open to dogs and their companions at Trump Golf Club. There are few places a dog can go to enjoy the open space freedom of sand, sun and water. There are MANY,places that people can go. Please keep the beach area and its access points open to dogs. Thank you. CJ CJ Jack V.P. Operations/Senior Writer Web Placement Solutions 0: 310-349-8118 x 116 F: 866-221-7228 M: 310-567-0693 1353 Inglewood Ave Ste. A Hawthorne, CA 90250 www.webplacementsolutions.com 3 From: Julie Uselite@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 11:34 AM To: parks@rpv.com; cc@rpv.com Subject: Fw: Beach at Trump Golf Course As a follow up to last week's email. Yesterday, I saw the signs for the city council meeting this week and was considering whether or not I should attend. The pros (or so I thought) was that my voice would be heard. The cons, could be that if the city decided to patrol this beach and issue tickets, I could be targeted by disgruntled dog owners. The question on the sign should not be "Should dogs be allowed on the beach?" The question should be: "Should dogs be allowed on the beach off -leash" since this indeed is the decision that is being made by the City. That is what's happening now and it's discouraging to leave the City has know about this situation for some time and has been conducting a study while letting dogs on the beach under no control of their owners. I thought I would take this opportunity to relay several incidents in addition to the issue of the dog jumping on me last weekend: The following day, last Sunday, a Doberman almost attacked me. I was walking down the beach and the dog was sitting by its owner with a Frisbee in its mouth. As I approached, the dog ran at me, dropped the Frisbee, started barking, picked up the Frisbee and ran at me again with the owner saying nothing at all. At that point I picked up a rock in fear that the dog would attack me and the owner finally stood and called his dog back. Three weeks ago, a dog ran up to me and shook the water off after being in the ocean. I said "no" and the owner took a picture while the dog jumped on me. In January, a father was sitting on the beach with his two young children. A large dog ran over and jumped all around them and the father shooed off the dog while his young daughter was screaming and crying. A minute later the dog came back. The father stood and shooed off the dog and asked who was the owner. No one ever controlled the dog or said it was theirs. Last year a woman was sitting on a log while her small dog was at her feet. A pit bull saw the dog from across the beach and ran over growling and snarling. The woman picked up her dog and stood up while the pit bull jumped and bit at her dog. No one ever controlled the dog or said it was theirs. I love dogs and would not mind if dogs were on this beach on their leash and their feces were being picked up. The situation instead is that dogs are not under voice control of their owners and are threatening people and leaving their feces all over the beach. I feel that it will be very unfortunate if this beach is zoned as a dog park. I feel just as strongly that if that is the case, signs need to be very clear that this is an unpatrolled and unsafe dog park. My name is Julie Sanchez and I live in San Pedro. I bought my home in order to be close to this particular beach. Julie ----- Original Message ----- From: Julie To: cc rpv.com Sent: Saturday, February 11, 2012 4:53 PM Subject: Beach at Trump Golf Course After being jumped on by a large dog yet again while at the beach at Trump Golf Course, I called animal control to see if someone could come down and ticket the 50 people that had their dogs off of their leashes. The woman at animal control acted like they had never heard before this is a problem and said they would start to have people patrol the area. I have been jumped on by dogs on numerous occasions, have seen other people get jumped on, seen children and other dogs being attacked and I don't understand how this continues to happen. I knew I couldn't be the only person that has happened to, and so I looked online and on Yelp alone I see 2/20/2012 (D, numerous people that have reported the same significant problem. There are no signs at the trail entrances nor on the beach itself and the dog owners assume it is a dog beach because everyone has their dogs without leases. In fact, the woman who sat and watched her dog jump on me today insisted that it was a dog park. Of course, even if this was a dog park, the owners should be responsible enough to not let their dogs jump on people, but in all of the times I've been jumped on, not one owner has told their dog not to. This is unacceptable and I very concerned that one day a child or another dog is going to be attacked and maimed or killed. I'm surprised it hasn't happened yet, but it will be a sad day, and one that could easily have been avoided if anyone cared to address the situation. Can you please let me know the status of this beach and whether or not anyone ever plans on enforcing the lease law. I really think that if signs were posted, at least some owners would understand that they cannot leave their dogs off of their leash and unattended. Tickets need to be written and dog owners need to be put on notice. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Julie 2/20/2012 0 From: Herb Stark [herbertstark@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 11:53 AM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Honorable Mayor Anthony Misetich and Council Members City of Rancho Palos Verdes Subject: Dog Beach I write to solicit your support in rejecting and opposing the making of the beach below the Trump Golf Course a designated dog beach. As resident of Rancho Palos Verdes who also lives just above the Trump Golf Course, my wife and I have walked the beach in question many times over the years. Yes, some of the local residents have used the beach with their dogs off the leach. The problem is that once the City designates the beach as a "Dog Beach" it will attract potentially hundreds if not thousands of dog owners and their dogs. The solitude of the area will be lost, despoiling the beach with animal feces and trash which will certainly happen. I should also point out the most dog parks are fenced to control the dogs and to separate the large dogs from the small dogs. By designating the area as a "Dog Beach" with no proper fencing or control you will be opening the City to liability resulting from dog biting's and accidents. The beach will no longer be safe for children, beach -goers and native animals. Please help protect our pristine beaches and the environment by voting "No" for the dog beach. Sincerely, Herb Stark 32306 Phantom Dr. 310-541-6646 2/20/2012 0 From: cicoriae@aol.com Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 12:15 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: City Council Agenda for Tuesday, February 21 Mayor Misetich and Council Members, On the City Council meeting agenda for Tuesday, February 21, are a number of matters of interest to me. Abalone Cove Shoreline Park Abalone Cove Shoreline Park is the gateway to the beach, tide pools, and trails below and beyond the bluff -top park. It is also an area to be enjoyed in its own right for the stunning views and opportunity for easy access to nature. Unfortunately, it seems that we have scraped the bluff top clean of natural vegetation and allowed the parking area to serve as a dumping ground, all of which detracts from the natural beauty of the area. I support the City appropriating matching funds for the approximately $300,000 LWCF grant to improve this park. Our City has been the fortunate beneficiary of public gifts of funds and parkland in the past and with those grants came responsibilities. This grant gives us an opportunity to meet our responsibilities for park upkeep at reduced cost to the City. It's unlikely that we'll have another opportunity such as this for many years. This park doesn't require a lot of "stuff" to make it more inviting. Indeed, too much "stuff" here would be a detriment. The proposed improvements for the most part (not so sure about "art nodes") would enhance the site and the public's ability to enjoy the site's natural wonders—better trails, picnic tables, low growing shade trees, and natural vegetation. I also think that you should consider this an opportunity to move or conceal the unsightly propane tanks along PV Drive South and consider installing an automated parking system so that we can enjoy the park from dawn to dusk. Southern California Edison I'm glad to see the proposed letter to SCE encouraging implementation of measures to reduce power outages also mentions the impacts the frequent fires have on habitat areas. The California Public Utilities Commission recently (January 2012) adopted rules to address the frequency of fires across California. It seems to me, however, that the rules focus on public safety and structure protection (obviously important, too) and balancing that against costs associated with improvements in utility infrastructure. While some of the rules may be helpful in reducing the threat to habitat areas, for example by requiring more frequent inspections of poles and lines, the rules and discussion are silent on the impacts to biological resources as well as any requirement for mitigation when impacts do occur. It's important to raise the awareness that the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve represents an enormous investment of public and private funds to protect coastal sage scrub habitat precisely because it was at risk of disappearing. These frequent fires threaten that habitat and that investment. SCE can and should do better. Rancho Palos Verdes Beach 2/20/20121 �I arc I'd like to commend City staff on the background work done on the pros and cons of creating a public dog beach at Rancho Palos Verdes Beach. It's a difficult issue. On the one hand, it's nice to see dogs and people outdoors enjoying the sun and surf together. On the other hand, there are legitimate safety and other concerns as outlined in the staff report. My use of this beach is limited to walking across it on my way from one trail to another. My personal experience with dogs running loose on this particular beach is that a few are not a problem but as the numbers increase so does the feeling of trepidation. My children are now grown, but past experiences (not at this beach) with large off -leash dogs bounding toward them when they were small and terrifying them has influenced me to always leash my own dogs. If you're inclined to approve dogs off leash at this beach, I hope you'll establish strict limits on the number of dogs permitted at any given time. Last, I hope you'll give each of those with an opinion on these topics an opportunity to voice their views. It may make for a lengthy meeting, but, as we've seen in the past, the manner in which an issue is handled can be as important as the ultimate decision to the well-being of the community. Thank you for your time. Eva Cicoria 2/20/2012 From: M and D Richardson [medon@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 1:47 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach Honorable Mayor and Member of the City Council: During your consideration of the above -captioned February 21 agenda item, please give particular attention to the long-term financial and infrastructure ramifications of designating Rancho Palos Verdes Beach an off -leash dog facility. The Staff Report for this item suggests that parking is inadequate to support the anticipated demand of just dog owners, let alone the many other visitors to this area whose use is arguably far less intrusive on the park and beach. Additionally, the ranger man-hours projection appears quite low if the city's intent is to achieve anything near 100% compliance with the suggested regulations. Your decision in this matter should, I believe, be guided solely by the facts of ongoing management and maintenance of the park, beach, and access trails. Few people would even try to stifle a smile at the image of a happy hound bounding through the surf, but that has nothing to do with the reality of providing reliably safe and equitable access to an extremely limited city resource. Sincerely, Don Richardson Rancho Palos Verdes IN From: Maureen Wishner [maureenwishner@verizon.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 1:58 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Dog beach I am in favor of allowing dogs off leash at Trumps beach. I am a 40 year resident of RPV. Maureen Wishner Sent from my iPad 3 From: CVFERRARO@aol.com Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 2:47 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: Dogs at Trump Beach Dear City Council Members, PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW DOGS TO RUN FREE AT TRUMP BEACH!!!! My eight year old grandson, Bryce, and I often park for free at the parking lot next to Trump's Club House and walk down to the beach. Bryce loves to climb on the rocks, build sand castles and in the summer dive in the waves. After we are finished and have climbed to the top, we love to stop and have a carton of juice and some chips and appreciate the beautiful view from the picnic tables. Over the past two years, BRYCE HAS BEEN KNOCKED DOWN AT LEAST TWICE BY DOGS RUNNING FREE. HE ALSO HAS BEEN BITTEN ONCE. The only reason we didn't press charges was that his skin was not broken! The dog had only got his pant leg in his mouth when he bit. BEACHES SHOULD BE FOR PEOPLE. Dogs should have their own running area but NOT AT THE ONLY BEACH WITH FREE PARKING IN RANCHO PALOS VERDESM!! THANK YOU. Charles V. Ferraro 3530 Seaglen Dr. Rancho Palos Verdes 310-377-1592 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:01 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: RPV Dog Beach - Strongly Opposed From: Jo Anne Plaisted [mailto:plaisted7@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 1:45 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: RPV Dog Beach - Strongly Opposed Dear Council Members, We are writing to urge you to please refrain from allowing dogs on our precious Rancho Palos Verdes Beach. Don't change the current law prohibiting any animals on beach property. Don't let this beautiful and limited area of beach front be subject to pollution and dangerous dog attacks. Please keep it safe for our children, beach users, and native animals and plants. The public has a right to enjoy this precious space without confronting dog waste and being surrounded by dogs who could scare and/or attack visitors. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, 3 Rancho Palos Verdes Residents: Elizabeth Beazley 32206 Schooner Drive Rancho Palos Verdes CA 90275 Parker and Jo Anne Plaisted 4271 Admirable Drive Rancho Palos Verdes CA 90275 2/20/2012 3 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:04 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Off leash use of (Trump) RPV Beach From: Herbert Hyatt [mailto:h.w.hyatt@att.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:00 PM To: Dog Beach Project Manager - Subject: Off leash use of (Trump) RPV Beach 2/20/2012 My name is Herbert Hyatt and I have resided at 32424 Aqua Vista Drive, Rancho Palos Verdes for the past 25 years( directly opposite the Trump golf course entrance). I have used the beach for those 25 years to walk my dogs. It is a beautiful beach! The city is to be commended for the blue waste bags that they have provided. The people who walk their dogs off leash on the beach, in my opinion, are very respectful of this privilege! People pick up after their dogs, and routinely can be seen picking up after other peoples dogs, that have been missed by their owners. Blue bags left for later retrieval, are often picked up for disposal, by other conscientious dog owners! Blue bags are also used to pick up trash brought in by the tide. The dog owners who use the beach for off -leash dog recreation, I believe, are behaving responsibly in providing a beach that is kept clean for use by all. A visit to the beach will show this. My wife and I recommend it be designated an off leash area for the enjoyment of all citizens and their four legged family members. From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:04 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Trump Dog Beach -----Original Message ----- From: Rita Willens [mailto:ritaw3@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 2:27 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Trump Dog Beach To whom it may concern: I am a long time resident of RPV and more specifically the Portuguese Bend Beach Club. I would like to add my strong objection to the proposed "Dog Beach" below Trump golf course. For reasons of health,safety and security, I urge you NOT to allow Trump's Beach to become a dog's off leash beach. Sincerely, Rlta Willens 130 Spindrift Drive RPV Ca. 90275 1 3 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:09 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: dog beach @ trump From: Allen Snow [mailto:allen.snow@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 1:54 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: dog beach @ trump Dear Sir/madam, My family currently utilizes this small beach at least 2 times a month. Many of the dog owners let their unruly dogs jump all over people, invade picnics and do not clean up their messes. It will only get worse if it is opened as a dog beach. We do not have many sandy beach areas to go to, without driving a distance (San Pedro does not count, the water is so polluted you cannot get in the water). This would also not make the ground keepers at Trump very unhappy since it would increase the amount of dogs coming through their property and making more messes there. I do not know anyone I have spoken with that is not amazed at the thought of making this pristine beach a dog beach. I am a dog lover, that is not the issue. Sincerely, Allen Snow 2/20/2012 3 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:10 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog Beach From: John Barbieri [mailto:john@nrcwater.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 11:52 AM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach To the City Council: I am a longtime RPV resident and have jogged and hiked and enjoyed the RPV coastline, in particular the shoreline between San,Pedro and the Portugese Bend area, for over 40 years. I believe it is important, in fact essential, to conserve and manage our coastal resources in a way that ensures our continued enjoyment and in a way the preserves this area for future generations. I believe the proposed dog beach at all or part of the aforementioned area is consistent with the environmental and social values upon which the City of RPV was founded, values that endure today. I question the science behind some of the wild allegations I've read about in the media, and believe responsible pet owners on the Peninsula and elsewhere deserve to utilize this remote area. This easily falls into the category of multiple use of the coastal environment, and I am hopeful that the City Council in its collective wisdom will approve a dog beach in the area for the benefit of its citizens. Thank you John Barbieri Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:34 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Proposed changes to Trump Dog Beach From: Stan Hoskins [mailto:stanopolyl@mac.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:25 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Proposed changes to Trump Dog Beach an Please do not mess with our hidden treasure! It is the only dog beach that we South Bay locals can enjoy. . It is by far, the best thing us dog owners can enjoy around here! Stan Hoskins 11613 Armour Lane I Redondo Beach, CA 90278 1 (310) 372-6170 http://stanopoly.com "So, rather than appear foolish afterward, I renounce seeming clever now." - William of Baskerville. 2/20/2012 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:35 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Dog Beach at Trump From: Mercedes Van Pelt [mailto:mercedesvanpelt@yahoo.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:16 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Dog Beach at Trump Dear Sir or Madam, I would like to let you know how much we love being able to take our dog to the beach at Trump and hope that you will vote to keep it that way. Many families in the community enjoy this outdoor space with their children and four -legged friends. Please vote to keep this space as it is. Thank you for your consideration. Best regards, Mercedes Van Pelt, Realtor Palm Realty Boutique (310) 600-1223 Direct Want to find a home, click here: _www.MVPRealtyCo.com License 01835336 2/20/2012 0 From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:44 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka'; 'Katie Howe'; 'Tracy B' Subject: FW: refund requested From: Lill Amini [mailto:lamini@trumpnational.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 11:53 AM To: 'Carolynn Petru' Subject: FW: refund requested Hello Ms. Petru- Ironically, we just received this email. Please see below how off leash dogs are affecting our business... Lill Amini General Manager Trump National Golf Club, I.os Angeles One Ocean Trails Drive I Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 190275 p. 310.303.3256 ( f. 310.265.5522 www.trumpgolf.com I www.trumpnationallosanseles.com f t From: kelly Kenney Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 1:37 PM To: Lill Amini Subject: refund requested Hello Lilly, I was directed to you because I was told you were the person to resolve disputes. I and a friend who flew in from New York & I from Nevada played the course yesterday (Saturday 2/18). I was unaware there is a public park running through the course. I was not aware animals were allowed to run unleashed through the fairways and bunkers during play. We had a number of these situations affecting our play. Please Advise Awaiting Your Response James Kenney This e-mail message, and any attachments to it, are for the sole use of the intended recipients, and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution of this email message or its attachments is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and destroy all copies of the original message. Please note that any views or opinions presented in this email are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the company. Finally, while the company uses virus protection, the recipient should check this email and any attachments for the presence of viruses. The company accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this email. 2/20/2012 13 From: Allyn Mattox [mrsmaddog29@aol.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:51 PM To: cc@rpv.com Subject: No to Dog Beach Dear RPMCity Council I am writing to you with great concern regarding the proposed dog beach below Trump National golf course. Unfortunately since the city has taken over this part of the coastline and deemed it a trial "Dog Beach" void of rules or regulations, the beach is no longer safe for visitors, native species or dogs. With word spreading quickly through out Southern California and visitors coming from up to 100 miles away, the days of a few people/dogs upon the beach is being swept away by thousands of people and hundreds of dogs rotating through this sensitive habitat. Not only is this use of city property in violation of city ordinances and therefore illegal, this de facto dog park is adversely effecting the local community's safety, it's also directly impacting the endangered Gnat Catchers habitat, Cactus Wren, Live Forever succulent as well as native sea life that call these shores home. I do not understand why the city of Rancho Palos Verdes would want to open one of the few natural -occurring sandy beaches in all of Rancho Palos Verdes, to an unregulated dog beach (only 1 of 2) in all of Los Angeles County where ten million people live? 2/20/2012 61 3 After reading the minutes from the August 16, 2011 and the December 20, 2011 council meetings, this beach area clearly does not meet the Dog Park Site Criteria as set forth in your guidelines nor any other guidelines at other dog beaches or dog parks in California. Every dog beach and dog park has rules and regulations in place to protect the people, dog owners and their dogs. If the City does develop and implement rules and regulations for a Dog Beach, who will enforce them and where will funding come from? This area is no longer safe for any one group, including dogs; it is out of control on must days with good weather and is routinely left trashed. I would like to have a choice as to whether my family or I have to walk by an off leash Pit Bull, Doberman Pincher or German Shepherd, dog/human feces and I no longer do. I have found that the cons far outweigh any pros that a dog beach would provide here. As an unintentional trial run, the current situation shows us how the beach would work, currently this trial gets an "F" for negligence. The idea of a dog beach here sounds great, but the reality of it is a nightmare. With no emergency access, enforcement, lifeguards, fences, signage or rules this is not an appropriate place for a dog beach. Please respect the local community and environment by saying NO to the R.P.V dog beach. Sincerely, Allyn Mezin Mattox 2/20/2012 0 1425 Westmont Drive San Pedro, CA 90732 2/20/2012 (4 From: jessica Dessboop@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 1:11 PM To: CC@RPV.COM Subject: re: CC MEETING, DOG BEACH, 2/21/2012 CA http://www.yelp.com/biz/airport-park-santa-monica Airport Park - Santa Monica - Santa Monica, HOPE YOU CAN ACCESS THIS SITE. READ THE COMMENTS FROM USERS! O 3 Airport Park 50 reviews Category: Dog Parks 3201 Airport Ave Santa Monica, CA 90405 Neighborhood: Santa Monica (310) 458-8974 dogs,smgov.net Hours: Mon -Fri 7:30 am - 8:30 pm Sat -Sun 8:30 am - UO pm 60 reviews for Airport Park 50 reviews in English Al B, Los Angeles, CA 211912012 Good for Kids: No Went by for the first time today after reading good reviews on Yelp. It's a neat little dog park inside Santa Monica Airport. The small dog area is built on a slope with three levels, which is something I haven't seen before. There are dirt and wood chip areas with some trees and plants. There was plenty of room for my dog to run around and say hi to people. There is a water fountain for dogs as well as scoopers for when they do their business. The other dog owners were pretty normal and we didn't run into any overly aggressive dogs in the small dog area. Parking was pretty easy. I think we'll be back soon. More trees, seats, and terrain than the Culver city dog park, although the CC one has more relaxed parking and an additional trail you can do ON -LEASH up the hill. This place has a nice soft -grass outdoor field (on leash), but nice for sun lounging, reading on the benches, and has a small restroom facility not far. Airport park! WOOF WOOF! Bob R. Los Angeles, CA 111512.012 7 Check -ins Here I started bringing my dog Dexter here about a month ago. He loves it when there are dogs around. Our timing is such that normally there are no little dogs in the small dog area and he isnt quite ready to jump around with the big ones. The small dog area has three different terrain levels which is a neat feature while half is mostly dirt and the other half wood chips. There are planter boxes with large trees to provide shade for the doggies and owners if needed. We are normally there on tues and/or weds around 845am. 4. Sofie P. Los Angeles, CA ,.1 1111812011 This review is for Airport Dog Park only as I have never used the soccer field, which is stadium size and has a perfect lawn, nor the kiddie park. I have brought lunch and eaten it on the very nice picnic benches here while we watch the little planes land and take off. Its a fun park. I am still going to give the dog park 4 stars. Some of the humans that come here get minus 4 stars and only one star for having a dog and being good enough to bring him here. The park is very well maintained by the city of SaMo. Clean, no dood000. Enclosed spaces, one for large the other for small dogs. Please note, there are specifications for what is considered a large dog and a small dog, please read the signs. It seems that humans here get angry if you venture into the tiny tots space. The humans also don't watch their dogs at times. And I have seen two gnarly fights, not between dogs, but humans, over petty stuff. I have also been bullied here by a group of people that were coming here EVERY night.And their dogs were territorial of the park space. They all were a clique, and so were their dogs. I came to the park at off hours just to avoid them, and I found it odd that a group of dog owners would come to the park EVERY darn day. With out fail, I kid you NOT! I have stopped going. Partly because I have to pay about 20 dollars per dog to obtain a SaMo permit. I live in WLA, and if caught they will cite me. I have seen them give out citations many times. The police just wait by the only exit and if you don't have papers, then you go to court. Please be aware of this if you plan on trying the park. I did enjoy my times here at Airport. And it is a nice park. I am just currently not paying for it unless its perfect. And the humans have ruined that for me. 11 Lucy P. Playa Del Rey, CA n. 013CI j 1111912011 4 photos 2 Check -ins Here My little dog and I came here for the first time today and we had a great time!!! FYI, you do NOT need to be a Santa Monica resident to come here but you do need a Santa Monica permit. This park is regulated and from what I have been told, this dog park is randomly checked by animal control officers to assure all the visitors are in compliance. Information regarding rules and the fees can be found here: hftp://wwwOl.smgov.net... Fees can be paid and permits obtained in person here: http://www.yelp.com/bi... Don't forget to bring proof of vaccinations, evidence of licensing, and a $16.00 fee for the year. Their is a sign that says the small dog park is for dogs under 25 pounds. I saw larger dogs here today and the small dog owners did not seem to mind as long as the dogs are well behaved. This dog park is cleaner than most I have visited and the only complaint I have is that they have no grassy area at all :o(. They have an area with wood chips 1My dog had a great time anyway. The park provides "pooper scoopers" and a water fountain to make it more enjoyable for everyone. Also, there is a park public restroom at the other end of the parking lot as well. I made some new friends here and so did my dog. I will continue to come here and think my fee was well spent. I find that this dog park is safer than most since most of the dog owners are registered and a simple call to the Santa Monica animal control will keep the owners responsible. All I can say is "Yay! I'm a fan' !!!!! 1f 1112012011 1 Check-in Here One of the cleaner dog parks we've been to. We brought our yellow labs here to stretch for a bit. Because we don't let them off leash at most parks, we walked them around the exterior to see how they (and the other dogs) would do. Our dogs were fine, but at least one dog came rumbling up jumping on the fence barking to no end. Our dogs were pretty much uninterested. The owner just looked and laughed at us. We came around and attempted to bring our 80+ pound dogs into the big dog section, but we just got a really weird vibe from the people. Also, that same dog after following us all the way around the fence, was still going crazy at us and it didn't feel right. All in all though, looks like a great park but we didn't read the signs very carefully. I guess you need a SM license to let your dog play here. Didn't matter, our dogs were never off leash and we just walked around the grounds. Elizabeth S. Saratoga, CA 00000 1111012011 1 Check-in Here Nice people, very respectable. Most will clean up after their pets ASAP if they're paying attention. Very clean, pretty spacious, and has two separate places for big and for small dogs. Ana F. Los Angeles, CA 512712011 For all dog owners - your dog is not human. Your dog cannot vocalize its wants or needs, or yell at you from 50 feet away that it just took a poop. Your dog cannot tell you it is scared, or that it is in need of more exercise. It is your responsibility as an owner to watch your dog (just like the signs say) and make sure your dog receives enough exercise, discipline, and affection to become a well mannered part of your pack (totally quoting Cesar Milan), That being said, your dog will probably be a great addition to a dog park, provided that you are a good owner!!! So if you're the type of person who kicks their dog as punishment, or talks on the phone and ignores your 15 !b poodle in the large dog section, or you like to drop your dog off in the park while you have a picnic (and yes, I've seen all of these things here) - then please don't waste your time here. Your dog will probably misbehave, or get attacked by a misbehaved dog, and you will hate your experience here. And the regulars here will talk about you behind your back, ur dog) will be social kryptonite at the dog park! And now for the review! I absolutely adore the Airport Park. If you have a well-mannered dog and you want him/her to get some much needed socialization and exercise, this is the place to go. For the most part, owners are attentive, social, and generally match the persona of their dogs. My dog Sullivan is a 22 Ib terrier mix, and he absolutely hates the small dog area. He ignores the other dogs and rarely plays; we are often in the large dog area. Most large dog owners here are perfectly fine and welcome small dogs in the large dog area; they understand that their dogs should be able to socialize with all dogs, large or small. The park is clean, well -kept, and large enough for dogs to play fetch and roll around with other dogs. Also, it's open until 8:30 which is great for all the weekday latecomers like me! The security guy who tells us to go home is very friendly and won't kick you out like some other dog parks. So come to Airport Park - provided that your dog is well-trained already - and enjoy the gorgeous Santa Monica weather and environment! (And don't forget to get your SM dog license - it's only $15 :) ) Listed in: Sullivan's Travels 7/30/2019 1 Check-in Here I love this dog park! Dogs are always very playful here and the owners are pretty cool, laid-back ..... (thats hard to say about most dog parks because dog owners are s000 obnoxious about their dogs telling you the history of the breed, their favorite playmates, etc lol) Im just here to let my Frenchie run around and get tired so I can go home and get stuff done while he sleeps for a few hours, thats all!!! But the park itself is awesome, all wood chips and dirt. No soggy, muddy water soaked grass patches here. I dont have to worry about stepping in dog crap because the owners are usually good about picking up after their dog, of course theres always exceptions to that... ***IF YOU HAVE A SMALL, ENERGETIC DOG LIKE I DO THEN ITS BEST TO TAKE THEM TO THE BIG DOG SIDE FOR MORE ROOM TO RUN AROUND AND MORE ACTIVE DOGS THERE. DONT WORRY YOUR DOG WILL BE FINE, YOU CAN TAKE THE BUBBLE WRAP OFF YOUR DOG AND LET IT PLAY LIKE AN ACTUAL DOG. 51612011 2 Check -ins Here I got a dog. I live in an apartment. My dog is not the biggest fan of other dogs while on his leash. Solution? Airport Park. While the park is a mere 5 minute drive from my neighborhood of 2+ years, I can't believe I've only just started gracing it with my presence. It's clean. The parking is free and pretty decent. -there's barbecue grills, picnic tables, soccer fields galore, and a nice looking play ground. But I'm here for the dog park. Murray's about 13 pounds so he usually stays on the small dog side. The mulch and dirt combination masks the bath that I try to give him, but he loves rolling around on it. Even more so, he loves sniffing, chasing, and rolling around with other dogs... and being that annoying gym teacher who breaks up any romantic endeavors between other doggies. The small dog side runs the gamut from little chihuahuas to 45 pound bull dogs, and everything in between. From fluffy little purebreds to•"31 flavor mutts" , super playful little ones and the more reserved "sniffers", Murray loves interacting with his canine buddies. The dog owners here are pretty great too. Murray's a fairly new rescue who was a very fearful dog. With regular trips to the dog park, he's gained a lot of confidence and is really playful with other dogs and even warming up to people too. Other dog owners seem very normal and usually try to introduce their dogs to the shier ones to make the environment even more welcoming. I've taking the Mur -Monster to the big dog side when the small dog one is empty or the big dog side is more diverse. It's bigger and that side can get rowdy at times but he still loves chasing German Shepherds and Pitbu!ls alike. I am so grateful for this park, the other park users, and the adorable dogs that like to congregate here. It's such a fun yet relaxing way to unwind and help socialize your dog! Listed in; A Dog's Life Justin W Santa Monica, CA J 812412011 3 Check -ins Here Nice dog park if you have a Santa Monica registered dog. My dog is registered and sports her SM tag, so we were a -OK. I'd been warned by others to not go to the park if I didn't live in SM, because people may say something. It's well maintained and everyone was nice. I had a good experience and besides, my dog needed to run off leash for once and this park is the only I'm aware of that allows it. abigail K. Los Angeles, CA 00000 81812011 I absolutely love this park! I have 2 little poodles, unfortunately one needs a home :( my apt only lets me have one. Shes a rescue, once abandoned.:( I LOVE THIS DOG PARK! I have taken my dogs here 3 times and by the second they were so comfortable! They made so many friends! The dog park is dirt like almost all dog parks, cozy but not small. The patrons are very friendly, no weirdos I already made friends and know some of the regulars! Yes, yes there are some dogs that like to start fights and once it did get ugly but I spot them fast and pick up my C=00 And some people assume their dog is a "small" dog but its huge! take it to the proper area! its right next door! I really dont get that part! but all in all, Im so happy I discovered this place! I cant wait to come again! Saa is M. Los Angeles, CA 00000 1213112011 Great location - easy to find, lots of parking. Although lots of people and dogs, the trees and planters and benches gave impression of coziness. Each of my 3 dogs indulged in their favorite activity: the Eskimo ran after tennis balls before settling down, the Yorkie sniffed all over the grounds and socialized with other dogs, the ShihTzu just relaxed in a sunny spot. Friendly pets and owners. ........................... aar3,. James M. Santa Monica, CA Updated - 211612011 Go to the big dog park on the weekends for some MMA style dog fights. Seriously, some people have no business owning dogs, much less the kind that can rip your throat out. 1 Previous Review. Show all u 00000 611712010 Favorite dog park so far, but I haven't yet been to the new one on Ocean Park... so that might... Read more » Jennifer R. Santa Monica, CA 0130 91712011 I'm bummed my little one dislikes dog parks because this one is by far the best that I have found. The small and large dog areas are spacious and nicely maintained. The benches for owners are a great touch as well as the water fountain for thirsty pups. There is ample parking and a nice green area on your way to the dog run. The owners and their dogs are really friendly and there is no drama like at other do parks. QAQAMo� Park is a great place to have in our SM neighborhood .... Very spacious with friendly dogs and D owners. Today, my Lugo played with many dogs, ran around, drank water.... etc:) . I recommend to all dog owners! On Santa Monica wish list now: is to have a section in SM beach for our dogs. My Labradoodle will love it! Listed in: SoCal World This park is just big and roomy enough to give my dog a good run, and it's just small enough that I don't have to run around checking up on where he is and what he's up to. The people I met were friendly, and the park looked relatively clean. My dog had a hard time figuring out the water fountain, as it streams water in a jet like a human fountain instead of having it bubble up from underneath. He got his entire face wet and kept getting water shot in his eye before he figured it out. It was cute though. 1 used to work down the street, so I think this park is a great addition! This place is great. I take my dog there as often as I can, so she can run her little heart out. There are 2 sides, one for small dogs and one for big dogs. The big dog side is much more spacious. I've found that it's a little too crazy on the weekends, and ! ready stick to taking my dog there in the evenings/nights. I work during the day, so not sure what it's like during the day on weekdays. You need to be a SM resident to go there, or pay $12 (or something like that) to the city of SM for a permit. TO do this, you need to first register your dog with the city you live in (I did this at the West LA animal shelter), by bringing proof of rabies vaccination to your local shelter. Then take the proof of registration to the Santa Monica animal shelter to get the permit. After you do that, you can renew yearly by mail. It was definitely worth the $12. lan Iska .8.....: Los Angeles, CA j 511612011 If I lived closer, I'd probably come here every day. For starters, it's huge, well at least the large dog side is. Another plus: large and small dog separated areas. While my dog loves dogs of every size, she can be overly rough with smaller dogs (especially one when of her paws is the size of the skull of the smaller dog) which can cause freak -outs from the petite pups and their owners. The park is quite clean and most people are good about raking up poo. Still it is a dog park and there is dirk underneath that (respectably thick) layer of wood chips. When I took my dog it was pretty hot so she compensated by rolling in a dirty ditch that all the dogs helped to dig. Needless to say as long as it's dry and cool, your dog will probably stay relatively clean. I have feeling though that if it rains, it can be extra dirty. th the other dogs or people but then I'm not really there to socialize, my dog is, Plenty of benches and sun shades where you can sit and relax and watch your dog play. People were good about watching their dogs but of course it's not necessarily problem -free. When I was there, there was one incident where two dogs got a little too aggressive and scuffle broke out Luckily because these people were watching their dogs, the scuffle was controlled and then both dogs left the park without any major problems (a torn nail was all that happened). It's an unfortunate occurrence but quite frankly, you will be hard pressed to find a dog park that never has an aggressive dog or a lax owner or even a dog that has never been aggressive who suddenly decides he absolutely hates another dog. Key point as always, watch your own dog at all times and be prepared for anything. As tempting as it is to sit and play on your iPhone, it's not advised. Still, it's so big and the dogs have so much space to really run around, that I sincerely wish it was closer to me so we could here more. The park near me is probably half as large and much dirtier. This is a top bet if you live in the West LA/Santa Monica area -to go with your dog. Plenty of parking tool Listed in: For the Dog Joan S. Los Angeles, CA 00000 10/2312008 17 photos This modern -looking park space is relatively new, opened April '07. It contains a large dog park that has been reviewed separately. http://www.yelp.com/bi... But there's more than a dog park here, in this space adjacent to SaMo airport. There's a huge lighted soccer field, a kids' playground, picnic tables galore ... with grills, seating areas, grassy spaces....... It all has a state-of-the-art industrial look that fits the location perfectly. The space was in full use when I stopped by on a Sunday afternoon, The dog park was quite impressive, and I like that it's hilly. I love to see and hear planes in the air, and see planes taking off nearby, that too is a plus. Another plus: two parking lots. If the one on Airport Drive is full, as it was the day I was there, just drive down to Donald Douglas Loop at the other end of the park and go up the hill to see a second big parking lot. All in all, this is a wonderful, useful neighborhood park. And it was clean, including the restrooms. 13 photos Listed in: Parks & Scenic Spaces, Animal Stuff Alex C. Loma Linda, CA Updated - 7/23/2008 21 Check -ins Here—ocN lQ Just came back from Airport Clog Park this afternoon. They were laying down new mulch/woodchips on both sides. Smells like cedar! First time I've ever thought it smelled good at a dog park. It's really nice to see that Santa Monica takes good care of this dog park and it's little more than a year old. On a side note, I've been hearing a lot of more stories of dogs getting bit this summer. Maybe it's the heat or my extremely small sampling of the dog park goers, but make sure to keep a close eye on your dog if you're in the big dog side. Small dog side is almost always tame. Listed in: Things for your dog and you!, Dog Parks & Beaches! 00000 2 Previous Reviews: Show all &/25/2008 Oh airport dog park, you've been ousted I'm sorry to say, Oberreider is now my new fave. But I will... Read more jacqui d. Mar Vista, CA 11/3/2009 Dear Middle -Aged, Snokty Owners of Canines: Please don't take your aggressive jack russells, jealous poodles, and/or other douche -bag, untrained, teeth -snarling, alpha dogs here. Or to any dog park for that matter. Get your dog a trainer and yourself some common courtesy. Just because you go to this park everyday doesn't mean this is your territory. Yes, this is a dog park, but the dog park also has a sign that says "Watch your dog." So let me spell that out for you: If your dog is biting/humping/cornering my 14 Ib pup so that she cannot move without being aggressively pounced on, then get off your kaboose and get your dog in check. Maybe you should try out the big dog park, so that your mutt knows what it feels like when a dog twice his size wants to squish him into an unwarranted submission. There are lots of dogs here that playfully wrestle with each other and know how to amicably smell each other butts, so don't go ruining it for everyone else when your spoiled, un -socialized dog bites our innocent dogs for doing nothing more than just sniffing the ground or running around the park. Sincerely, A responsible dog -owner and her pup that would like to leave this park un -scathed one of these days 0 Carmen O. West los Angeles, CA C 1 2/1812011 The first time I went to this park was 3 years ago, on an early Saturday morning. There were only a few dogs in the small dog park at that time. The first thing an owner asked me as soon as I walked is "do you live in the city of Santa Monica? Or else you can't come in here......" Geez almighty! What snobs. They pulled their Jack Russell terrier away from my little pug every time he comes sniffing. Owners wouldn't't make an eye contact, discouraged small talks, drinking their little lattes and gave me an icy look as if they felt I had invaded their private little park. I felt very uncomfortable the entire 15 minutes I was there. Never came back. Arid it's too bad because the park is clean and beautiful (at least three years ago...) c/0 ....._.._............. Dave G. Los Angeles, CA .� .,,... .....,i ,.... 111412009 �n 0 UUhbtely my dog really likes this place, cuse I cant stand it. I mean the place itself is actually kinda nice, but the pack of obnoxious snobs that bring there dogs there make make it worse then parent teacher night at Harvard Westlake. I give it 2 only because my doggie loves it there so much. I@ Chris T. Westwood, CA J 81512008 Just came back this dog park this afternoon. I went with Roxanne mid-day. I have to say this is the cleanest dog park I have ever seen. Everyone was really good about cleaning up and they clearly lay new wood chips often. Also the park has full sun mid-day so I don't think there is much opportunity for mud to develop. The park is sloped and the large dog area has like 4 or five levels. There is even some dirt at the top. The clienteile were all very friendly and not at all stuck up! As we left the Santa Monica Park Rangers showed up. We were on our way out and we just kind of hurried. Apparently you are supposed to have a non-resident dog permit or something which costs $16 and operates for a calendar year. ! was told on the phone that 2009 ones would be available in a few months. As we don't have one of those we were lucky to get out without her tags being checked! But I think its kind a lame for Santa Monica to want to charge you $16 a year to use one park! Also LA doesn't forbid non LA resident animals ( AKA Santa Monica Resident Clogs). But i guess thats part of why the park is so pristine, cause I didn't see a single dog walker there, Listed in: Doggie Dreamin Jeana A. Santa Monica, CA J 61112009 I took my two snobby chihuahuas here for the first time a week ago. At first I was hesitant that the planes would scare my tiny little babies. But to my surprise the planes were not a distraction at all. I love the layout of this dog park. With the dirt and wood chips in both the big and small parks it was easier to get my chichis in the gate. There is plenty of room for the dogs to roam no matter what the size. The only true draw back is the lack of grass, but most dog parks in these parts dont have grass. I plan on taking my anti -social babies back here. The location is right, there is plenty of space and I can soak up some rays at the same time. Simone M. Santa Monica, CA 12118/2009 Our dog loves this place. It gets dark too early to go there much at this time of year, but in the summer we were here a lot. When we park the car in the lot here he knows exactly where we are and just starts losing his mind like a kid at Disneyland. It does seem like there's a clique of "regulars" who are always here and know each other, but we don't come often enough to have an opinion on the dog park social scene. Can't wait till the days get longer again so we can spend more time here. It's clean and pleasant and most of the dogs are pretty sociable in our experience. I mean, heck, our dog can be just as much of a jerk as anyone else's. ............................... Chuck M. Los Angeles, CA ;. 1 9125/2010 Nice layout, close to home, dogs w/ whom my bitch can romp. It is sometimes too crowded, and then my bitch has too many distractions to get in any decent romping. I get a kick out of people who do dumb things or don't realize that dogs play rough; "Control your dog!" A small puppy that whimpers and cries is going to attract all sorts of dogs who sense the weakness. When they gang up, the owner goes on the attack. When yet another dog lunges, the meanness starts. And then escalates some more. Whatever. I find unfounded snobiness and entitlement amusing. When you encounter this, always stare at them and smile. Owners on the phone, not paying attention to their brood?! Imagine that! Look out your window any day and watch the few parents who walk their kids. Are they chatting on their cellphone? Modern times. I go to Playa Vista more often just blc I hate to ever go into the kleptocracy called Santa Monica; they are always striving to figure out another way to take my money in order to give it to their homeless. Renee T. Culver City, CA 000013 412612009 8 Check -ins Mere After a battle of wills I finally broke down and purchased my permit for this park. I'm glad I did - it's money well -spent (not on vet bills, so it's all good, right?). Really enjoyed this park today ... good surfaces (terraced dirt and bark so your dog can pick), great people, good space, lots of places in the shade to sit. I think we'll make good use of the permit:) ..... _:...............: isabel y. Los Angeles, CA 1/6/2.011 �02 one of my favorite dog park in los angeles. and you know i love it because i live downtown and i travel that 45-1 hour as often as i can to come here because my dogs LOVE it. there are two dog sections for dogs of different sizes and i take my dogs to both, i have a chow (who is a mix so she's small) and a golden retriever but no one ever complains when i take them to the small dog side. i read reviews that everyone's pretty snobbish here but i totally disagree. if you want to talk anyone here would talk to you. if you don't that's fine too. it's a really nice place with really nice people and the dog watching here is INCREDIBLE. the breeds here are gorgeous, and the whole place is nice and clean and I'm even (kinda) willing to let my dogs drink from the fountain here. definitely 5 stars. oh yeah parking is easy and right there too. Wd Chelsea W. Long Beach, CA 3/2512010 Both the small dog and large dog areas are pretty big and it is very clean. I like coming here but usually in the afternoons when it is not too crowded. From like 4 on it gets really busy which is nice sometimes because it is easier for my pup can to find a friend to play with, but at times with that many dogs it can, understandably, be sort of chaotic. Overall it is a nice park and worth the $15 to license my dog in SM. We live close by and the park is one of the cleanest I have been to. Sarah R Shoreline, WA 111412008 My husband, dogs, and I visited Airport Dog Park for the first time this weekend and we all absolutely loved it. It's new, clean, attractive, and even has a water fountain for both two- and four -legged visitors. The location is pleasant, there's two good-sized parking lots, and the Mr. and I enjoyed watching planes take off & land while our guys ran around making new friends. -There's a fair amount of seating for human. -types with shaded canopies and while they don't provide baggies like some parks, they do have plenty of scoops and trash cans, And best of all, the patrons were all very good about using them -- can't say the same about some of the other local dog parks! We're Santa Monica residents, so our dogs already had the necessary licenses to use the facilities, but I understand that the city is now issuing permits which allow non-residents to use the park. After a few hours, the humans left happy and the pups left exhausted. What more can you ask from a dog park? Listed in: My Neighborhood Samantha W. Marina del Rey, CA _J 3/6/2011 My dog Spot loves this park. It is clean, they have a few pooper scoopers around and all the patrons are good about picking up after their pets. They have a separate area for big and little dogs. I have a Jack Russel and with his high energy I don't like him mixing with big dogs because I'm afraid they will get too rough. My only criticism is that the big dog area is huge and the little dog area is much much smaller apOAey have a weird hedge shrub thing in the middle so if your dog runs to the other side of it you can't see them anymore. I get that the big dogs need more space than the little guys, but I feel like the space isn't used as good as it could be on the little side. Other than that it's great. I do like this dog park, but the Santa Monica exclusivity makes me mad. It is clean and doesn't smell like some other dog parks, but come on... I don't mind going and paying $15 for the license, but that is pretty silly when 9 times out of 10 nobody is there to check. The Brentwood dog park is great, so I have been going there now instead. Nice clean dog park in a great location! Water fountains, nice landscaping and really clean, dog -friendly public restrooms. Also, they have separate areas for big dogs and little dogs. It's not close to the runway so there is little to no air traffic to spook the dogs. ................._....... Tom A. Los Angeles, CA Updated - 1011512009 The other thing is that city of Santa Monica wants your dog to be registered before entering this park ... just beware. Listed in: My flog Parks 1 Previous Review: Show all)) J :, ; Js •, 1011412009 The park needs grass..everytime I take my dogs there, they need a bath afterwards ... it shouldn't... Read more » Matt A. Long Beach, CA 1111012008 I'm sure this is a great park and it looks fun, but my beautiful, obedient, friendly borzoi puppy won't be able to play here because Santa Monica makes non-residents buy an additional license. No worries, there are plenty of other great dog parks in LA and especially on the West Side. Check out my others reviews as we have made the rounds at all the local parks. Haley M. Los Angeles, CA 612112010 1 Check-in Here This place is amazing ... from time to time I dog sift for a friend and I always try to take her dog somewhere new and exciting... this is the largest and cleanest dog park I've been to yet! Very classy... nothing out of the ordinary when it comes to the people, I mean everyone is pretty anti -social but I wasn't exactly trying to strike up a conversation w anyone either, besides I'm here for the dog not for me and it's do sho a 5 star from me, I will be back! J 511312008 Super clean. Beautiful dogs. Easy parking. love that it's well patrolled by the animal control officers. However, full of snotty lacadaisical dog'owners. The sign says: "watch your dog". Which means, don't let it be aggressive, attack, or constantly hump other dogs. The dogs are great, the owners need a brush up on dog park etiquette. Stop reading those papers/book and playing with your blackberry. Be a responsible and considerate dog owner. Oh, and parents who bring their kiddies in: watch them. It's a DOG PARK. Dogs jump. If you have a problem with that, don't bring the kids or keep them outside. It's not a kiddie playground! Get some common sense. Mandy P. Los Angeles, CA 13C)013 j 5/1112009 We've been taking little RJ to the Culver City Bone Yard for a handful of months and decided it was time to show him the west side. This dog park is great. It's big and it doesn't smell like a litter box. The different "levels" make for a great place to run and play. RJ made tons of new friends and he's looking forward to going back. 1 to 40 of 50 (5 Filtered) Page: 1 2 C7 Deals Nearby .VP Ven c LP •.i'�� ,j�4'°� � �?�. tae Creative Chakra Spa Marina del Rey, CA $60 for $110 Certificate John Cassese - The Dance Doctor Santa Monica, CA People Who Viewed This Also Viewed... Joslyn Dog Park 16 reviews Neighborhood: Santa Monica The Boneyard - Culver City Dog Park 74 reviews Neighborhood: Culver City Barrington Dog Park 50 reviews Neighborhood: Brentwood Oberrieder Dog Park 36 reviews IN, Neighborhood: Westchester ! LAX _ ............. William S Hart Park & Off -Leash Dog Park 27 reviews Neighborhood: West Hollywood People Viewed This After Searching For... Dog Park Santa Monica Soccer Field Santa Monica Picnic Areas Santa Monica N From: Carolynn Petru [carolynn@rpv.com] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 4:15 PM To: 'Carla Morreale' Cc: 'Teri Takaoka' Subject: FW: Ocean Trails Beach From: Colleen Vincent [mailto:2bysea@cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 3:58 PM To: parks@rpv.com Subject: Ocean Trails Beach Dear Council Members, I live in the Portuguese Bend Club. As you know, our private beach is contiguous to the newly -acquired city beach beneath Trump's. I love to see the dogs running in the ocean and along the beach; it lifts my spirits. Please allow people to enjoy an outing where pets and their owners can have a free, open and beautiful experince. We have too many rules and regulations about everything nowadays. Unfortunately my dog at 15 is no longer able to get down to the beach, but every time I look down there from my deck I remember how joyously she ran chasing other dogs through the surf. Dogs provide many services for humans and they can't speak for themselves. Please be their advocate. Colleen Vincent 126 Spindrift Dr., RP 52 year resident of the Portuguese Bend Club. 2/20/2012 3"