HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes CAB 030106COMMUNITY AESTHETICS BOARD
March 1, 2006
The Community Aesthetics Board met on March 1, 2006. The meeting was called
to order at 5:40 P.M. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Complex located
at 10500 N, Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and was opened with
the Pledge of Allegiance.
I. ROLL CALL
Members Present:
Donna Wisneski,
Bettie Marks
William Olsen
Gail Vastola
Sherry Levy
Members Absent
Carolyn Waters
Also Present:
Mark Hendrickson, Staff Liaison and City Forrester
II. NEW BUSINESS
Mark Hendrickson opened up the discussion regarding the Norfolk Island Pine
Tree. He gave the Board a photo and information on the Norfolk Pine that
included the history of the tree. He stated the Norfolk Pine is not a true pine. It is
actually associated with an Oak Tree and they are not categorized as an exotic
or invasive tree. The tree can grow as tall as 100 feet; therefore, it is very prone
to hurricane damage. It is recommended that they are not planted in residential
areas. There was discussion regarding the committees feelings on asking staff
to start a code amendment to limit or restrict growing Norfolk Island Pine Trees in
the City because of the safety concern. Documentation shows that these trees
should not be grown in one story residential areas. New hurricane research is
showing that trees that grow over 40 feet can be a danger in a Hurricane. Mark
discussed the possibilities of how the provision would be put in place. Staff could
ask City Council to either state that no more Norfolk Pine Trees could be planted
and they could ask that existing trees be removed for the safety and well being of
the residents. There was a suggestion to put in place a 5 year time limit for the
trees to be removed.
Gail Vastola suggested that the next grant program could focus on using the
grant funds to remove the Norfolk Pines. The Board was receptive to this idea.
Mark stated that Staff is going to be bringing to the board, suggestions on how to
use the grant money and the board could make a recommendation to use the
money to remove the Norfolk Pine Trees. This will be in the best interest of the
City because of safety purposes. Removing the trees will protect telephone
lines, electrical lines and will also protect the single family homes.
1 f
\P > �?
Gail Vastola made a)motion to recommend to staff to provide grant monies in the
next budget that wiWto remove the Norfolk Island Pine Trees throughout the City.
Bettie Marks seconded the motion and it passed 6 -0.
Donna Wisneski Yes
Bettie Marks
Yes
William Olsen
Yes
Gail Vastola
Yes
Sherry Levy
Yes
III. COMMENTS FROM THE BOARD
Bill Olsen asked about construction on the roads throughout the City. He thinks
the construction is complete but the cones and signs are still up. Mark stated that
there is still work being done. He is not aware of any signs that are not in areas
where there is no construction being done. Mark suggested calling Public
Works for any sign or obstruction issues.
Bettie Marks talked about the Palm Beach Gardens sign on Central Blvd. and
Donald Ross Road. She feels the sign is too low and that the sign is different
from the other signs throughout the City. In addition, the landscaping is covering
the words Palm Beach Gardens. All that can be seen is Welcome to.... The
Board discussed the sign and some suggestions were to raise the text on the
sign, raise the sign itself, or be more attentive to how high and fast the
landscaping is growing. Mark will look into what can be done with regard to the
sign.
There was discussion about the having a City Clean Up day. Mark will find out
when the County holds their clean up day and also the date for the National
program called "Clean Up American ". He will bring back more information to the
board on this issue. Gail Vastola suggested having High School students help
because they need community service hours.
VI. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:24 P.M.
Approval:
Xnna Wisneski, Chairperson
�k PiA I P r4&, ) q,
Sherry Levy, Bo Member`
i Al
1
Bettie Marks, Board Member
William Olsen, Board Member
Carolyn Waters, Alternate Board Member
Attest:
Susan'
Public Information/ Recording Coordinator