HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-19-2018 - Com. Develop. Committee MinutesDUBLIN CITY COUNCIL
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Monday, March 19, 2018
Minutes of Meeting
Vice Mayor Reiner called the meeting of the Community Development Committee to order at
6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers.
Committee members present: Mr. Reiner, Ms. De Rosa, Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes.
Other Council member present: Ms. Fox.
Staff members present: Mr. Earman, Mr. Krawetzki, Ms. Goss, Ms. Mumma, Ms. Husak, Mr.
Kridler, Mr. Plouck, Ms. Richison, and Nichole Martin.
Approval of Minutes
• Approval of October 30, 2017 Community Development Committee Minutes
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes moved approval of the minutes of the October 30, 2017 meeting.
Mr. Reiner seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. De Rosa, abstain.
• Review of Spring 2018 Beautify Your Neighborhood Grant (BYN)
Applications
Ms. Husak noted that Ms. Martin would be overseeing the BYN grant process tonight. Six
applications were received for the 2018 spring grant cycle. If approved, the six grants will
consume most of the available grant funds for this year, so there will be only one grant cycle
in 2018. The applications have been reviewed by the Planning, Parks and Recreation and
Landscape team. Although the Villas of Corazon has requested $7,500, the BYN grant award
limit is $5,000 — and that is staff's recommendation.
o Savona Subdivision (Tartan West) - $4.501.73
Ms. Martin presented an overview of the Savona subdivision application. The proposed
improvement is located between the two ponds in the reserve located at the entrance of
Savona, at the intersection of Corazon and Vineyard Haven Drive. They are proposing to
refurbish the existing trellis. With this improvement, they will also be updating the
landscaping.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes inquired what refurbishment is planned for the trellis. That
information was not included in the pricing that was submitted.
Ms. Martin stated that repairs are being made to match the original trellis, including updated
paint/stain and ensuring that all the mortar is in good condition.
Mr. Reiner stated that staffs memo indicates that the applicant should continue working with
staff to finalize the landscape plan and address other landscape deficiencies. Will staff be
tweaking the plan in regard to the kind, quality and size of the plants?
Ms. Martin responded that staff is comfortable with the landscape plan for this particular area
of the subdivision. However, they have identified deficiencies elsewhere that are not meeting
the original, so staff will be continuing to work with the HOA to ensure that over time, they
will meet the intent of the original plan approval.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
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Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to recommend approval of the Savona grant application
for $4,501.73 to Council.
Ms. De Rosa seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Ms. De Rosa, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes.
0 Tartan Ridge - $3.569 - $5.000 (depends on actual cost)
Ms. Martin stated that Tartan Ridge is proposing to: (1) complete the construction of a
sidewalk within the public right-of-way across the frontage of a non -constructed lot; (2)
rehabilitate the gazebo, restoring the concrete entryway sign; and (3) rehabilitate the
landscaping around the gazebo to restore it to the intent of the original plan. Staff
recommends that the Committee recommend an amount up to $5,000.
Mr. Reiner inquired if the developer did not complete the sidewalk.
Ms. Martin responded that this is an instance of a private property owner purchasing a lot
but never constructing a home. A building permit would have required construction of a
sidewalk; however, a building permit was never secured. The HOA wants to provide that
pedestrian connection.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes:
1. Stated that the estimate refers to a "form and pour 4 -inch thick concrete sidewalk,
unreinforced, no excavation included." A picture that was provided indicates level
ground. How is it anticipated that the sidewalk can be poured with no excavation?
Ms. Martin responded that one of staff's recommendations to the Committee is that the HOA
be required to provide full engineering drawings of anything proposed within the public right-
of-way. Staff would ensure that the sidewalk is constructed to the public standard.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes inquired if the applicant is aware that their costs are likely to
increase significantly.
David Lakin, HOA president, 7128 Glacier Ridge Blvd, indicated that they were aware.
2. Stated that the edging is heaving, and the proposal indicates removal and installation
of lawn edging. Are they removing and reinstalling the current edging or supplying
new edging? What assurance is there that the next edging will behave differently than
the existing?
Mr. Lakin responded that plastic edging would be used. The existing metal edging is rusting
and has sharp edges.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that one of the inherent problems with edging in central
Ohio is freezing, thawing and heaving. It doesn't matter what the edging is made of; it all
heaves as it freezes. It may not be the best investment to re -install a type of edging that
would heave. It might be better to remove and replace it with a hard edge. Whatever edging
is installed with this will do the same thing the current edging did and for the same reason.
Mr. Reiner stated that there are plastic edgings that, if the cadence of the spikes is increased,
and excavation is sufficient, it is sometimes possible to keep in place for a longer period of
time than steel edging.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes agreed. It is possible to gain some longevity.
Mr. Reiner noted that adding brick edging could "pinch down" indefinitely.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 3 of 13
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that brick or concrete edgers set in a linear fashion are
also easier to move, if desired; other edgings are difficult to move once they have settled.
The estimated amount of $740.00 is sufficient to consider other options.
Mr. Reiner stated that the edging should not cost more than $8.00/foot.
Ms. De Rosa stated that most of the grants are for refurbishing. It appears that this is a
proposal for maintenance work on the gazebo.
Mr. Lakin responded that the gazebo is rotting and in need of repairs.
Ms. De Rosa inquired if the purpose of maintenance is a normal application of the grant
funds.
Mr. Reiner responded that the grants are for any type of beautification improvements to the
neighborhood. Sometimes it includes fencing, and the gazebo is a visible outbuilding.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that no materials are specified; the application refers
to "caulking and repairing." Will it be caulking only, or would some materials be replaced?
Mr. Lakin responded that his understanding was that the work would involve replacement of
boards. The estimate they received was not very detailed. The HOA has some monies set
aside for the project, as well.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that the rotting is occurring under the window sills, and
the windows are under a significant eave overhang of 3-4 feet. It might be best to look at
the roof, as water may be coming in from the top.
Mr. Reiner stated that the pavilion is an attractive entry feature, and it is worth the effort to
repair it.
Ms. De Rosa moved to recommend approval of the Tartan Ridge grant request for up to
$5,000.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Ms. De Rosa, yes; Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes.
0 Tartan West - $5.000
Ms. Martin stated that the proposed project includes improvements to the Tuscany Drive
entrance off Hyland Croy located in Tartan West Section 5, Reserve R. The reserve is owned by
the City of Dublin and maintained by the Tartan West Homeowners Association. The second
improvement is located at the Savona entrance off Corazon Drive within Tartan West Section 1 -
Part 1, Reserve B. This reserve is owned by the City of Dublin and is maintained by the Tartan
West Homeowners Association. This project proposes aesthetic enhancements to these two
highly visible entrances. Planting plans have been provided, which show plant materials similar
to the existing plant materials in the neighborhood, including hydrangeas and grapevine.
Sheila Nichols, HOA president, 8826 Venture Way, stated that the landscaping installed several
years ago has become tired and unattractive. This is an attempt to improve it at the very visible
entrance ways.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 4 of 13
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes inquired what type of upright oaks are anticipated to be installed.
Ms. Nichols responded that they will match what is at the main entrance off Hyland Croy.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes inquired if English oaks would be used.
Mr. Reiner stated that they would be a hybrid; there is a narrow one, perhaps Roberts?
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes suggested that Ms. Nichols ensure that her contractor matches
the genus specie and specifically the cultivar. It is important that there is a good match.
Mr. Reiner stated that because this neighborhood has an Italianate look, he has always been
surprised that the landscape architect did not design it with a row of cedars, such as one would
see in Tuscany, instead of deciduous trees that are common to New England. With all the
attractive masonry, towers and architecture, why wasn't a Tuscany look maintained in the
landscaping? There are hardy cedars available for this area that look like the Tuscan cedars.
Although all the hardscape in this neighborhood is very attractive, it was planted with a New
England landscape. His suggestion is that if a major landscaping rehabilitation is ever
undertaken, it should be consistent with the Tuscan look.
Ms. De Rosa moved to recommend approval of the Tartan Ridge grant request for $5,000.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Ms. De Rosa, yes; Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes.
0 The Mews at Muirfield - $2,522
The proposed project is located on a private, multi -family parcel in the same location as existing
landscaping. The improvements will not impose on the right-of-way. The proposed project will
refresh and renew the frontage on Memorial Drive across from the Muirfield Village Golf Club
entrance. This will include thinning and transplanting current plant material, installation of new
plantings, and increased outdoor lighting. Because the proposal refreshes the landscape along
Memorial Drive, staff recommends the Dappled Willows be exchanged for 4 -5 -foot tall Green
Giant Arborvitae placed behind the bed, as an evergreen buffer is more consistent with the
character along Muirfield Drive and will provide additional screening. The applicant should work
with staff to modify the landscape design and adequately screen from the public right-of-way.
Mr. Reiner inquired if the City's landscape architect would help them select the plants.
Ms. Martin indicated that they would do so.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that the landscape materials list includes six 5 -gallon taxus
densiformis. There are deer in that area all the time, and planting taxus is like setting out a
salad bar for deer. The neighborhood across the street has begun to replace their taxus with
boxwood. She would suggest they consider changing out the taxus.
Mr. Reiner stated that if they need a colorful perennial, Catmint/Nepeta is deer -proof, and it will
bloom all season. Three new ones are coming out this year, but Walkers Lo is a nice variety; it
blooms blue -purple. It would bloom in time for the Tournament. There are already several
large plantings along Muirfield Drive; it's a very hardy plant.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes noted that there are some at the intersection of Avery and
Muirfield. They could swap the Baby Joe Pieweed out for the Nepeta.
James Dobbs, HOA president, 5726 Strathmore Lane, Dublin, inquired if those suggestions are
being noted by staff for their benefit.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 5 of 13
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes requested that Mr. Krawetzki would do so and is happy to assist
them in these efforts.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to recommend approval of The Mews grant application.
Ms. De Rosa seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. De Rosa, yes.
0 The Villas at Corazon - $7.500
The proposed project is located within Tartan West Section 1 -Part 2, Reserve G. The reserve is
owned by the City of Dublin and is maintained by the Tartan West Homeowners Association.
The proposal is to create a landscape connection between the landscaping of the Villas entrance
and the Tartan West entrance using a similar plant palette. The utility boxes would also be
screened. New plantings would include Karl Foerster, Little Lime Hydrangeas, and Grey Owl
Junipers. Staff requests that the applicant provide a detailed plan depicting the proposed plant
quantities and spacing. Staff recommends an alternate Juniper selection with lower growth be
selected. Although $7,500 has been requested, the BYN grant limit is currently $5,000 and that
amount is staffs recommendation.
Larry Winner, 9321 Pratolino Villa Drive. Dublin stated that he represents the HOA.
Mr. Reiner inquired if the HOA could provide the landscape plan detail that staff is requesting.
Mr. Winner responded that they could do so.
Mr. Reiner noted that the BYN grant amount is capped at $5,000.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that although an HOA cannot apply two years in a row,
they could apply the following year for an additional grant. Perhaps they could complete some
of the work this year, and the rest two years out.
Ms. Husak noted that some exceptions to that policy have occurred.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that if they are able to complete only a portion of their
project this year, potentially, they could apply for a grant next year. However, if that grant
cycle does not permit, they could apply the following year. She inquired if Mr. Winner has a
plant list.
Mr. Winner indicated that they had a list.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes requested that staff and the HOA work together to provide the
plant list and details that are needed. Whenever there is the opportunity, incorporating the
street sign in the plan can improve the aesthetics of the entrance.
Mr. Reiner noted using any opportunity to hide the electric utility boxes in the communities
is always appreciated, as well.
Ms. De Rosa moved to recommend approval of a grant of $5,000 for the Villas of Corazon
application.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Ms. De Rosa, yes.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 6 of 13
0 Wedgewood Glen - $5.000
Ms. Martin stated that the proposed project is located within Wedgewood Glen in Reserve B.
The reserve is owned by the City of Dublin and maintained by the Wedgewood Glen
Homeowners Association. The proposal includes: (1) replacing portions of large mulch beds at
the Summit View entrance with river rock; (2) adding several plants to complement the existing
stone waterfall and Dublin specific walls; and (3) updating the extensive landscaping at the
entry located at the intersection of Summit View Road and Conine Drive. Staff recommends the
applicant consider converting mulch areas to turf due to the large quantity of formal landscaped
area. The applicant will need to provide a river rock plan detail and specification, and planting
plan for staff approval prior to installation.
Mr. Reiner stated that he agrees with the idea of reducing the maintenance needs by sodding
some of the existing areas that are mulched.
Chuck Crist, 4166 Boroe Way, Dublin, stated that the mulched areas are extensive. The aging
water feature is also expensive to maintain. The City of Dublin pond in that area has flooded
the last few years, so some of their mulch is washed away by the end of May. This project will
reduce their costs and the amount of mulch that is impacted by the flooding.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that it is a good idea to reduce the plant bed size.
Everything in there is so beautiful; there is no need to screen it. There is no information on the
proposed river rock material. Too many times, she has seen river rock installed adjacent to wet
areas. Too small of an aggregate has been used and it soon disappears.
Mr. Crist stated that the proposal is for 3" aggregate.
Mr. Reiner stated that 3 — 6 inches is normal.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes encouraged them to use the largest material available for which
they like the aesthetics; they will get more coverage. Water will move 3 -inch aggregate with
relative ease, and it tends to become embedded in the soil to the point that it is lost.
Mr. Christ noted that the reason a 3 -inch aggregate was recommended was that it can be
moved in a conveyer truck. It would take a hand truck to move the larger material, which
would increase the costs an additional $2,500. The current cost of the project is $12,500
towards which the grant would provide $5,000.
Mr. Reiner suggested that they visit Semco Stone to view the materials that are available in
various shades of buff and gray. He would recommend also that an environmental liner be
placed underneath the materials so that the materials can be kept much longer, yet the water
can percolate through.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that a material called Riprap is larger — 4"-5", and she has
seen that material conveyed onto pond edges. It would be worth checking out the options,
because smooth, round stones are lost quickly.
Mr. Reiner noted that there is an aesthetic value to the smooth, round stones.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes agreed, but noted there already is a limestone waterfall in this
location.
Mr. Reiner moved to recommend approval of the grant request for $5,000.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. De Rosa, yes.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 7 of 13
Mr. Reiner noted that the Committee's BYN grant recommendations are scheduled on the
following Council meeting agenda tonight for review/approval.
• Streetscape Plans Update
Mr. Earman stated that at the October 30 CDC meeting, the Committee discussed the goals
and process for two streetscape projects: Emerald Parkway from the intersection at
Coffman Road (City Hall) south to Tuttle Crossing Boulevard, and Bridge Street from the
I270 interchange to the Riverside Drive Roundabout. Originally, both projects were
budgeted; however, incorporating the Committee's input has increased the costs. Staff has
followed up on one of the Committee's directions. They have met with Casto, the owner of
the Dublin Plaza, who expressed an interest in collaborating with the City of Dublin in
landscaping improvements in the plaza area, including right-of-way easements. They are
willing to consider cost sharing.
With both the Emerald and Bridge Street projects, there are budgeting and phasing issues.
There are also additional property owners with whom staff would need to meet.
o Emerald Parkway Design from City Hall South to Tuttle Crossing
Mr. Krawetzi presented an overview [slides shown] of the streetscape plan.
The planting enhancement goals are:
- Addition of evergreen plants in the streetscape to provide structure during fall and
winter months.
- Addition of colorful four -season plants in the streetscape to provide year-round
interest (both evergreen and deciduous), and to establish a more uniform and
rhythmic Dublin planting style.
- Reduction of plant height at stone walls to expose more views of the stone walls
that are symbolic of the City of Dublin.
A list of the plant materials, which are salt -tolerant, was provided in Council's packet. The
plants that will be used in this project are on that list. The plants will be installed in open
spaces between trees and to update the existing beds. The Woerner-Temple intersection
will be refreshed with evergreens; low plant materials will be placed in front of the walls
with taller materials on the side, if there is the opportunity; medium-sized plants on the
south side.
Cost estimate:
The cost of this project -- $196,000 -- is included in the CIP budget. With that budget, all
of the Emerald Parkway project could be completed.
Mr. Reiner inquired for what timeframe is this amount budgeted.
Mr. Krawetzki responded that a total of $220,000 is included in the 2018 CIP budget for
these projects.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 8 of 13
Ms. De Rosa inquired if that is the total 2018 amount budgeted for both the Emerald and
the Bridge Street streetscape projects.
Mr. Krawetzki responded that is the total for both projects.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes noted that would only leave $30,000 for the Bridge Street
project.
Mr. Krawetzki responded affirmatively. The projects could be phased — perhaps focusing
initially on the gateway areas, so that some of both projects could be completed this year
and the remaining portions next year.
Ms. De Rosa inquired if the fencing and walkways are in good shape, or do those items
need to be updated, as well.
Mr. Krawetzki responded that these streetscape projects were limited to planting materials
only. However, he believes the other items are fine.
Mr. Reiner noted that the Degroots Arborvitae is a very narrow, unusual looking plant. Is
there any design reason that is used and not another one that is hardier?
Mr. Krawetzki responded that it was selected due to its size and location — it has a good
height but is compact at the base. Additionally, something that is not overpowering, but
smaller and more compact, is desired in the medians.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that she has concerns about placing Cotoneasters in
places like this because they tend to catch trash, such as leaves, wrappers, and bags. Was
there research about these specific cultivars?
Mr. Krawetzki stated that they looked primarily at salt tolerance and were trying to have
evergreens in some of these areas, as well. In regard to the Cotoneasters, not many are
used in this plan.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes inquired if 590 three -gallon small shrubs are included in the
planning list.
Mr. Krawetzki responded that there are 690 three -gallon small shrubs.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes inquired if they are deciduous shrubs.
Mr. Krawetzki responded that they are a mix.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes inquired what is the distinction between the large 3 -gallon
shrubs and the small 3 -gallon shrubs — does that refer to their ultimate size?
Mr. Krawetzki responded affirmatively. For instance, the Jarred Gold arborvitae is a larger
shrub. However, the description for the larger shrubs should state 7-8 gallon, not 3 -gallon.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes inquired if he had considered cedars based on their salt
tolerance in the medians.
Mr. Krawetzki responded that he did.
Mr. Reiner stated that another plant that tends to catch trash is Red Barberries.
Mr. Krawetzki responded that those used in the plan are tighter, more compact shrubs. The
larger shrubs tend to grab trash.
Mr. Krawetzki noted that a total plant list is included in the packet materials.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 9 of 13
o West Bridge Street Design from 270/33 to the Historic Core
Mr. Krawetzki presented an overview [slides shown] of the streetscape plan.
The planting enhancement goals are:
- Creation of a rhythmic cadence with the streetscape gateway, using a repeating
formal landscape treatment that signals entry into Dublin from the highway, shifting
from the casual highway corridor to the more formal City gateway.
- Addition of evergreen plants in the streetscape to provide structure during fall and
winter months.
- Addition of colorful four -season plants to provide year-round interest (both
evergreen and deciduous) and to establish a uniform, rhythmic Dublin planting style.
- Reduction of plant height at stone walls to expose more views of the stone walls
symbolic of the City of Dublin.
- Balance of investment in permanent hardscape versus potential future development.
Much of this landscaping on the south side of the street is the 270/33 landscape project that is
already being built. The plants were purchased before the October 2017 meeting. Beginning
with the plants that have already been purchased, they have added in Golden Globe arborvitae
in front of the Inkberry. This is based on the comments at the last Committee meeting in
regard to their defoliation issues. Hopefully, this positioning will help shield the lower sections.
Mr. Reiner inquired if Inkberries were chosen due to salt tolerance.
Mr. Krawetzki responded that they were selected before he joined City staff. They were
included in the I270/33 interchange contract, although they haven't been planted yet due to
project phasing.
Mr. Reiner inquired if their cost is part of the $220,000 budgeted for these projects.
Mr. Krawetzki responded that they are not.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes recommended wrapping the trunks of the Sugar Maples in this
plan for the first four years; otherwise, there will be no chance of success with the Sugar
Maples, particularly in the middle islands.
Mr. Reiner stated that perhaps due to the climate changing, the Sugar Maples no longer do well
in the green strip between the road and sidewalk— they burn and die. They still do very well in
a large lawn area. In an urban environment, they do not last long. Maybe they should shift their
design to use something other than a Sugar Maple — perhaps a Red Maple or London Plane
Trees.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes suggested Tulip Trees.
Mr. Krawetzki stated that the reason he selected Sugar Maple is because the City had already
purchased Sugar Maples on the south side.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that if they wrap the trees for the first few years, they will
have a chance of survival.
Mr. Reiner inquired what is the total cost estimate for the Bridge Street streetscape project.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 10 of 13
Mr. Krawetzki responded that the total estimate is $450,000 for just the plantings in the
Emerald Parkway and Bridge Street corridors. That amount does not include the walls and
walkways.
Mr. Reiner stated that there is only $220,000 in the 2018 budget.
Ms. De Rosa requested clarification as to which plantings were already purchased with the
I270/33 contract.
Mr. Krawetzki responded that the Sugar Maples, Inkberries and Daylilies on the south side have
already been purchased, but they are not included in the $450,000 cost estimate.
o Avery-Muirfield Landscape Buffer
Mr. Reiner that although not scheduled on this agenda, the Avery-Muirfield Landscape buffer
was part of the October 30 Committee meeting discussion. He requested an update.
Mr. Earman responded that staff is considering the options with Legal and discussing some of
the options with property owners in that area.
Mr. Reiner stated that this area is part of his daily commute — and it is an eyesore. Since this
project has been held up for some time due to issues and potential options being reviewed by
Legal, he would recommend taking a different route:
- That a City landscape staff member visit every home on this street and request the
homeowner to sign a waiver permitting the City to restore the landscape buffer between
their home and the street at the City's cost. This will also increase their property values.
- Perhaps those costs could be taken from next year's City beautification budget — that
can be discussed.
- The landscape restoration should not include crabapple or deciduous trees. During the
fall and winter months, views of the backyards are not screened.
- The City should complete the work, rather than contracting it out. The City could
purchase two semi -truck loads of 5-7 foot Norway spruces.
- This constant delay due to legal problems cannot continue. The problem can and must
be solved. The best way to do it in this case is to visit the homeowners, explain the
City's plan, and tell the homeowner how they would benefit. Most homeowners will be
thrilled to get several large Norway Spruces at the rear of their backyards. He has
personally handled these situations multiple times in his career — personal contact with
the homeowners to offer them something at no cost typically is well received.
Ms. De Rosa inquired how many homes would be involved.
Mr. Earman estimated 70 homes.
Ms. Crandall stated that Mr. Martin has knocked on some doors, and there were some property
owners who were not interested. With the Coffman Road fence line issue, where parts of the
fence were ultimately removed, staff did go to each homeowner and come up with an
alternative landscaping arrangement for that property. Staff can make a similar attempt for this
situation and obtain feedback.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that the City should begin to provide the buffer for all the
homeowners who are in agreement. After their neighbors have nice screened plantings at the
rear of their yards, the others will want the same.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 11 of 13
Ms. De Rosa stated that Mr. McDaniel had previously suggested using the Tree Fund for this
project. She assumes that, other than the $220,000, there is no other funding source available
for this project.
Mr. Krawetzki stated that there is nothing additional in the 2018 budget.
Mr. Reiner stated that, bypassing the contractors, the City could purchase the trees wholesale
from Mid -Ohio Tree — a 7 -foot tree is $60.00. The City could buy a couple truckloads of these
trees and complete the project itself at a great cost savings.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes agreed. Wholesale trees are available at less than $10/foot. She
would also recommend infill be included; use a combination of trees and shrubs, so although
we lose the lower portion of the canopy with evergreens, the evergreen shrubs in the
understory would fill in those gaps.
Mr. Reiner stated that this would be a good project for the City's landscape architect to draw
up, use sequential photographs or an aerial view of the area. Determine what is needed, and
then secure the property owners' permission.
Ms. De Rosa inquired by what means the Committee could move this project forward.
Mr. Reiner stated that staff will return to the Committee with a plan and a budget, and a report
on how many neighbors agreed to the landscaping. It should take approximately six hours to
visit all the homeowners, but it must be done on a Saturday morning or late afternoon when
the homeowners are at home. Earlier in his career, he visited every property owner on Franklin
Park and offered them free landscape, sprinkler and lawn sodding — every homeowner signed
up.
Returning to the budget needs for the Emerald Parkway and Bridge Street streetscape projects,
what is the Committee's recommendation?
Ms. Fox stated that the Committee would need to determine the priorities. In her perspective,
Bridge Street is the City's front door.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that the City has a potential partner with Casto.
Mr. Earman stated that the preliminary project estimates were developed prior to adoption of
the 2018 CIP Budget. Subsequent to that adoption, the Committee has discussed the proposed
projects in more detail, including walls and pathways. The infrastructure increases the costs,
and would be completed in a phased process.
Mr. Reiner asked if the project could be built without changing the grades in the sidewalks.
Mr. Earman responded that there are parts of the project that can be done now without doing
that. In front of the Casto property — if a pathway is desired, it would need to be regraded, the
stormwater re-routed and retention walls installed.
Mr. Earman stated that with phasing, there are portions of the project that can be done with
the existing funds.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes asked if Casto is agreeable to partnering with the City for this
project that would benefit their property.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 12 of 13
Mr. Earman responded that Casto is willing to work with the City, but wants to see what the
final plans are before committing to contribute to the project and how much. They are also
working with 2018 dollars, and, currently, do not have funds allocated for such a project.
Mr. Reiner inquired what Committee recommendation would best address this scenario.
Mr. Earman responded that staff would request the Committee's prioritization of the existing
funds. The finances for the remaining projects can be programmed in next year's capital
budget.
Mr. Krawetzki stated that just the landscaping portion of the West Bridge Street section is
$212,000.
Ms. De Rosa inquired if only the entryways were completed with the trees already purchased,
what would that cost be?
Mr. Krawetzki responded that is the $212,000 cost, which includes all the landscaping, minus
the Casto property improvement and the stone walls enhancements. The Emerald Parkway
project is $200,000.
Mr. Reiner requested the Committee's prioritization in regard to the two streetscape projects.
Ms. De Rosa stated that either the two projects will need to be done separately, or more funds
identified.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that for her, the priority is Bridge Street. Emerald
Parkway isn't "broken;" Bridge Street is. If it is necessary to phase them, it should be Bridge
Street and then Emerald Parkway.
Mr. Reiner agreed.
Ms. De Rosa concurred that Bridge Street is the priority.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that she would not recommend installing 456 daylilies, but
rather mix them up with something else. They all bloom at the same time, and that is it. Put
something else in the front row that has a different bloom time.
Mr. Krawetzki stated that all of the daylilies to a certain point on the street have already been
purchased under the previous contract.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes suggested that some of the daylilies be installed down in the
area where they have not yet been purchased. Swapping out some allows for inclusion of other
plants with different bloom times.
Mr. Krawetzki concurred.
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes moved to recommend proceeding with the planting of the Bridge
Street corridor with the $220,000 budget allocated.
Mr. Reiner seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Ms. De Rosa, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes.
Ms. Fox inquired the Committee's input about hanging baskets on the bridge.
Mr. Earman stated that Engineering has some issues with that consideration. Those will be
addressed in an update to the Committee.
Ms. De Rosa stated that staff will also bring back a plan for implementing the Avery-Muirfield
landscape buffer.
Committee Development Committee Minutes — March 19, 2018
Page 13 of 13
Vice Mayor Amorose Groomes requested that staff also provide an Information Only update on
this redesign/readjustment of the Bridge Street landscaping, moving some of the daylilies to
incorporate other plants.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
Deputy Clerk of Council