HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 05-11-99 - Regular Meeting MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
MAY 11, 1999
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Proclamation re Older Americans Recognition Day, 5/20/99 1
Proclamation re National Public Works Week, 5/16-22/99 1
Res. #6258, denying the Appeal and denying Conditional Use
Permit No. 99 -12, to operate an automobile and truck towing
storage yard at 9641 Imperial Hwy. (Doug's Tug) Adopted . 4
Res. #6259, denying the Appeal and denying Zone Variance
No. 99 -13, relating to wall height & eliminating required
landscaping at 9641 Imperial Hwy. (Doug's Tug) Adopted 5
Judy Jacobson requested Council consideration to allow
charitable, non - profit organizations more than two yard sales
per year 6
•
Vicki Van Leuven commented on problems she is having with
Code Enforcement re animals and other issues 6
Removal of Items from Consent Calendar 6
Council Minutes: Special, Adjourned & Regular Meetings,
— 5/11/99 Approved 6
Warrants Issued: 1 54550 — 155140, $1,653,374.49 Approved 6
Selection of law firm for personnel/labor relations matters:
Auth. City Mgr. to execute agreement between the City &
law firm of Liebert, Cassidy and Frierson Approved 6
Appeal, Conditional Use Permit #99 -08 — A request for
on -sale alcohol & entertainment in a restaurant located at
8014 -18 Telegraph Rd. (Applicant: Lorenzo Sallas) Set hrg. 7:30 p.m.
(Appellant: Larry Rosenbaum, Ramco Investment Co.) 5/25/99 6
PAGE 1 OF 4
COUNCIL MINUTES, MAY 11, 1999
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Joint Public Hearing w /Community Dev. Commission (CDC)
to consider Disposition & Development Agreement between
CDC & L.A. Community Design Center for Sr. Housing Dev. Set p.m.
hr g. 7:30
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at 8117, 8127 & 8133 Third St. 5/25/99 7
Res. #6260, approv. an application for Street Rehabilitation
Funds from 1998 State Transportation Improvements Program
(STIP) Augmentation Fund Adopted 7
Res. #6264, approv. the appointment of Kathleen Richter to
Emergency Preparedness Committee, Dist. 2 Adopted 7
Res. #6265, giving notice of intent to initiate detachment &
exclusion proceedings from the Water Replenishment District
of Southern California Adopted 7
Establish date for the 1999 Mayoral Transition Ceremony Set for 7:00 p.m.
6/29/99 7
Status Report on Downey Av. street beautification Ref. to Staff&
Traffic Comm. 10
Underground Utility District #17 Update — street light
design consultant authorization Approved 10
Modifications to 2nd Floor office space & appropriation of
$55,000 from the General Fund for the work Approved 10
Consider location for installation of bronze plaque Cont. to 5/25/99 10
Public Library Foundation allocation FY 1998 -99 Approved 11
Landscape Maintenance Agreement with Complete Landscape
Care for parks, civic center facilities & the Downey Cemetery Approved 11
Res. #6261, ordering Engineer to prepare & file a report
on assessments within Lighting/Landscaping Dist. A.D. 121 Adopted 12
Res. #6262, approving the Engineer's report for assessments
within Lighting/Landscaping Dist. A.D. 121 Adopted 12
PAGE 2 OF 4
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COUNCIL MINUTES, MAY 11, 1999
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Res. #6263, declaring its intention to levy & collect Lighting/
Landscaping assessments within Lighting/Landscaping
Dist. A.D. 121, FY 1999 -00 Adopted 12
Cn. Winningham requested staff review: Parking on
Firestone Bl. between Lakewood Bl. & Rives Av. re off-
street parking; gas station on the corner of Telegraph Rd. &
True Av. where diesels and other large trucks are turning onto
the residential street; and excessive speed of traffic on Chaney Av.
at Gotham St. along ease side of East Middle School Ref. to staff 12
Cn. Winningham asked Police & Code Enforcement to review
high usage of Wilderness Park & overflow of parking on
Little Lake Rd. Ref. to staff 12
Cn. Winningham mentioned Kidsday & Viking Awards at
Downey High & acknowledged the Downey Unified School
District & City for honoring these students 12
Cn. Perkins noted outstanding students at Hall of Fame awards
at the Downey Theatre 12
Cn. Perkins acknowledged the Kidsday event & thanked Police
Dept. for patrolling the area & Community Services staff for
coordinating the event 12
Cn. McCarthy asked staff to review the request of Judy Jacobson
to allow charitable, nonprofit organizations more than two
garage sales per year 12
Cn. McCarthy asked Code Enforcement to look into vacant former
gas station at northeast corner of Gardendale St. & Downey Av. 13
Cn. McCarthy complimented the Street Faire & the
involvement of the Downey Chamber of Commerce and Police,
Fire & Public Works Departments 13
Cn. McCarthy complimented the Fire Dept.'s Open House
at Station 1 13
PAGE 3OF4
COUNCIL MINUTES, MAY 11, 1999
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Cn. McCarthy welcomed Building Official Linda Haines back
after her recent illness 13
Cn. Lawrence mentioned the 12600 block of Dunrobin Av. is
having roblems with late -night ice cream vendors & speeding
p
vehicles & requested more Police presence Ref. to staff 13
Cn. Lawrence requested info. re the Private Industry Council's
capital project in search of new headquarters & how their
programs are going and their mission for the next 5 -10 years 13
Mayor McCaughan acknowledged Kidsday & the Golden Bear
Awards at Warren High School 13
Mayor McCaughan noted it was mentioned at the last Southeast
Water Coalition meeting that the problem of contaminants has
now reached the Whittier Narrows Dam 13
Mr. Caton indicated the Judge ruled against FEMA (flood
control) lawsuit, instituted by a group of cities in the area 13
Adjourned in memory of Jack Garland, former City Planning
Commissioner & Victor Max, former City Purchasing Manager 13
Meeting adjourned to 6:30 p.m., May 25, 1999 13
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PAGE 4 OF 4
1.1163
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
MAY 11, 1999
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:41 p.m., May 11, 1999, in
y ,
the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Gary P. McCaughan, M.D, . residin
p g
PRESENT: Council Members:
Gary P. McCaughan, M.D. Mayor
Keith McCarthy Mayor ProTem
Joyce L. Lawrence
Robert C. Winningham
Meredith H. Perkins
ALSO PRESENT: Gerald M. Caton, City Manager
Charles Vose, City Attorney
Judith McDonnell, City Clerk - Treasurer
Lee Powell, Assistant City Manager
Desi Alvarez, Director of Public Works
Greg Caldwell, Police Chief
Darrell George, Director of Community/Economic Development
Ron Irwin, Fire Chief
James Jarrett, Director of Community Services
Lowell Williams, Director of Finance
Robert Brace, City Engineer
Christina Garcia, Special Projects Coordinator
Vicki Jenkins, City Librarian
Ron Yoshiki, Asst. Director of Community Dev./City Planner
June Yotsuya, Assistant to the City Manager
Shirley Conte, Executive Secretary
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor McCaughan presented to Mr. Paul Yokota a Proclamation declaring May 20, 1999,
as Older Americans Recognition Day.
Mayor McCaughan presented to Public Works Director Alvarez a Proclamation declaring
• May 16 -22, 1999, as National Public Works Week.
HEARINGS
Mayor McCaughan opened the hearing on APPEAL OF DENIAL OF CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT NO. 99-12 AND ZONE VARIANCE NO. 99-13 FOR PROPERTY LOCATED
AT 9641 IMPERIAL HIGHWAY (DOUG'S TUG) TO ESTABLISH AND OPERATE AN
AUTOMOBILE AND TRUCK STORAGE YARD FOR PROPERTY ZONED M -1 ( LIGHT /-
GENERAL MANUFACURING), M -2 (GENERAL MANUFACTURING ) AND P -B
(PARKING BUFFER).
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11164
Ms. McDonnell affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council
Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member McCarthy, and so ordered to receive and file.
Mr. Yoshiki gave the staff report and mentioned the Planning Commission denied the case on a
2 -2 vote with one abstention. He narrated a slide presentation of the subject property, which is
located on the north side of Imperial Highway between Bellflower Boulevard and Dunrobin Avenue,
and explained the property is in conflict with the General Plan policy to zone this area for commercial
uses, noting the proposal for auto towing and storage is not a commercial use. He mentioned a
previous request in 1989 was denied on appeal and that the subject property backs up to Independence
Park, is next to the GTE facility, and adjacent properties to the east are developed with a mixture of
apartments and single family. He reviewed the land use diagram for the future of the City and
presented views of the subject site and surrounding properties.
Ms. McDonnell indicated correspondence was received from The Fertig & Gordon
Companies, Inc., who manage the apartments at 12414 Dunrobin Avenue, requesting the proposal be
approved only if it can be built in a way that looks attractive from Imperial Highway and does not
create noise or other problems for the adjoining residential properties.
It was moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member McCarthy, and so
ordered to receive and file.
Mayor McCaughan asked if the applicant /appellant, or his representative, wished to come
forward and present their case.
Mr. Jim Peterson, 9832 Lesterford Avenue, representing Doug's Tug, Inc., submitted a packet
of information to the Council, which included artist's renderings of the site plans showing the
proposed southern elevation and landscaping for the development; photos of the subject and
surrounding properties; the February report of activities for the business at its current site on
Woodruff Avenue; and a petition recommending approval signed by approximately nine property
owners in the area. He pointed out the property was purchased as an opportunity to relocate the
business and rovide a state -of- the -art facility. The property is zoned correctly for their use,
p y
M-1/M-2, (Light/General Manufacturing/General Manufacturing) and has the identical characteristics
of their current location. He felt the dimensions of the property would not be advantageous for a
neighborhood commercial development. He referred to issues raised by citizens speaking at the
Planning Commission hearing and questioned, whether this location would be any more of a traffic
hazard than any other location in the City. He further explained that they dispose of all waste
according to California environmental laws; keep their property clean; do not maintain a junk yard on
the property; are a Police impound facility; and have state -of- the -art surveillance and security. He has
reviewed Planning's concerns and amended his plans to better represent what the community is
striving for. When asked if he was aware of the general plan designation for the property before it was
purchased, he replied that he was not.
Mayor McCaughan asked if there was anyone present to speak in favor.
Richard Engles, 9518 Muller Street, said his property is adjacent to Doug's Tug's current site
and emphasized that the business is a well - maintained facility. He also felt the proposed site would be
difficult for any other development.
Council Minutes 5/11/99 -2-
1116
Miller Adams, owner of ESP Psychic at 9661 Imperial Highway, submitted a letter in favor of
Doug's Tug, Inc. opening a towing facility at this site.
Paul De Tilla, 12733 Bellflower Boulevard, referred to discussion at the Planning Commission
regarding the General Plan issue and felt it would be difficult to develop this site in the C -1
P C-1,
Neighborhood Commercial designation. He felt the property would sit vacant if the appeal is not
redirected by the Council.
Mayor McCaughan asked if there was anyone present to speak in opposition.
Richard Peters, 12337 Dunrobin Avenue, submitted and read information opposing the
pP S
development, stating it would sabotage the long - standing General Plan to protect and improve the
nearby family residential area. He felt the zoning should be changed on the Planning map to prevent
this issue from reoccurring.
Ellen Kirk, resident of Bellflower, explained that she sold her son Dale Kirk, owner of Dale's
Toe, this same site in 1989 for use as an automobile and truck storage yard, and he was denied this
usage at the site. She felt Doug's Tug should have been aware of the land use designation and felt
Planning Division staff would have explained it. She noted Doug's Tug has several large trucks, over
40 feet long, and they handle heavy duty towing, which would create excessive noise and traffic issues.
She felt this facility would impact the residential properties next door, would affect rental rates and she
felt the Council should not defer from the General Plan.
Yolanda Henley, 12615 Eastbrook Avenue, and Cathy Johnson, 12618 Eastbrook Avenue,
noted they represent residents in the vicinity of this site and asked them to stand and be counted. They
submitted a petition from 38 residents urging the Council to deny the appeal and deny approval of the
Conditional Use Permit and Zone Variance. She also indicated that some residents who originally
signed the petition in favor of this development have changed their minds after learning it was a 24-
hour operation and are now listed on the petition in opposition. She urged the Council to adhere to
the General Plan and felt there would be other suitable developers interested in this site.
Ms. Johnson referred to comments from the original Planning Commission meeting on this
issue and urged the Council to listen to the residents who live nearby up and back u to this site.
Burt Taylor, 12615 Dunrobin Avenue, who works for the Los Angeles County Public Works
Department, noted this department previously had a yard on Paramount Boulevard next to Beach's
Market and incurred problems without having trucks as large as those used by Doug's Tug. He
mentioned there were several accidents at the site and the trucks make noise and create smoke. He
concurred with the comments of prior speakers in opposition.
Steve Strickland, 12602 Izetta Avenue, stated he is one of the closest residents to the proposed
site and mentioned traffic situations already being experienced in this area. He noted there are many
apartments in this vicinity and multiple families living in single- family units, which has brought the
standard of living in these neighborhoods down. He urged the Council not to add to this situation.
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11166
Lydia Felix, 7814 Bairnsdale Street, mentioned having a family member who lives on
Eastbrook Avenue. She is frequently in that neighborhood, the traffic situation is a problem, and she
urged the City to adhere to the General Plan.
Jane Zacharias, 12625 Dunrobin Avenue, noted there is already a traffic problem on Dunrobin
Avenue and urged the Council to deny the appeal.
Letticia Suza, 12603 Eastbrook Avenue, referred to current traffic p roblems and excessive
traffic noise. She urged the Council to deny this project.
Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street, referred to the Plannin g Commission minutes .-�►
wherein Nick's Used Equipment was mentioned a number of times and stated Doug's Tug cannot
compare itself to this business, as it has been at this location for over 40 years. He said the General
Plan designates this site as neighborhood commercial, and auto towing, which is an industrial use, is
inconsistent with this zoning. He noted impacts to surrounding properties included land use noise,
aesthetics, and health hazards and felt that approval of the variance will confer a special privilege to
this applicant. Also, Doug's Tug should have checked the zoning before purchasing the property. He
reviewed the reasons given in 1989 when Dale's Toe was denied the same type of business on this site.
Mayor McCaughan asked the applicant /appellant if he wished to speak in rebuttal.
Jim Peterson mentioned the main concern from residents is the impact to traffic and assured
the Council that the setback for the fence allows for a 65 feet long, 25 foot wide, driveway, which
would allow any truck to enter without impacting Imperial Highway. He referred to other concerns
such as noise and landscaping and explained that his project is not the same as the Dale's Toe project
in 1989, which occupied only the back portion of the property, approximately one -half acre. He
responded to questions and comments from the Council.
There being no one else to speak, it was moved by Council Member McCarthy, seconded by
Council Member Lawrence and so ordered to close the hearing.
RESOLUTION NO. 6258
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DENYING THE APPEAL AND DENYING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO.
99 -12, TO OPERATE AN "AUTOMOBILE AND TRUCK TOWING
STORAGE YARD" AT 9641 IMPERIAL HIGHWAY, ON PROPERTY ZONED
M -1 (LIGHT MANUFACTURING), M -2 (GENERAL MANUFACTURING),
AND P -B (PARKING BUFFER)
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Lawrence,
seconded by Council Member McCarthy, and carried by the following vote to waive further
reading and adopt.
AYES 3 Council Members: Lawrence, McCarthy, McCaughan
NOES 2 Council Members: Perkins, Winningham
Council Minutes 5/11/99 -4-
t 1I6 7
Prior to the vote, Council Member McCarthy commended the presentation by Doug's
Tug, noting he visited the present and proposed sites, stating it is a very clean operation. He
referred to comments regarding the traffic situation on Imperial Highway, noting traffic will
increase with population growth, as well as with developments of the Los Angeles Board of
Education and NASA sites, and with any business that occupies the 9641 Imperial Highway site.
He noted his concern is the conflict with the General Plan and with surrounding neighbors.
Council Member Lawrence concurred with Council Member McCarthy and noted she was
on the Planning Commission when the General Plan was before that body and is committed to the
goals set out in the plan. She commended Mr. Peterson's presentation but was concerned for the
residents in this area and felt it would lock in another parcel to an obsolete plan and the plan's
goals will never be reached.
Council Member Winningham felt traffic issues were addressed but did not understand the
effect on residential areas, as these large trucks are not allowed on residential streets. He stated
the General Plan is not clear and felt it would be difficult for this lot to be utilized for the use
designated. He applauded Mr. Peterson's presentation and commended the amendments he has
made from what he presented to the Planning Commission. He felt most of the concerns have
been met and others can be dealt with through a Conditional Use Permit. He hop ed the citizens
who had initially signed in favor of Mr. Peterson's proposal and later reversed their view to
opposing the project had attended the Council Meeting to speak. He felt it is a good project and
that Mr. Peterson has proven himself as a good neighbor.
Council Member Perkins asked staff to explain how someone is advised when approaching
Planning staff that zoning on a particular parcel may be designated M-1/M-2, but that the City's
long -term plan is for another designation. He was informed that the client is informed of the
zoning, the long -range plan, the history of the property, prior actions on the property, and any
inconsistency with the General Plan. He then stated he is not in favor of the Zone Variance and
feels the City needs to correct the zoning maps to concur with the General Plan. He felt it was a
good project and thanked everyone for their input.
Mayor McCaughan noted this is a nicer project than the prior proposal for this type of
business on this site; however, the effects to residents have not changed and he concurred with
staff's recommendation to approve the denial of the Conditional Use Permit and Zone Variance.
RESOLUTION NO. 6259
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DENYING THE APPEAL AND DENYING ZONE VARIANCE NO. 99-13,
RELATING TO WALL HEIGHT AND ELIMINATING REQUIRED
LANDSCAPING AT 9641 IMPERIAL HIGHWAY, ON PROPERTY ZONED
M -1 (LIGHT MANUFACTURING), M -2 (GENERAL MANUFACTURING),
AND P -B (PARKING BUFFER)
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member McCarthy,
seconded by Council Member Lawrence and unanimously carried to waive further readin g and
adopt.
Council Minutes 5/11/99 -5-
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The meeting recessed at 9:24 p.m. and reconvened at 9:30 p.m. with all Council
Members present.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Judy Jacobson, 8418 Suva Street, requested Council's consideration to amend the Downey
Municipal Code to allow more than two yard sales per year for charitable, non - profit organizations.
Vicki Van Leuven, 10031 Lesterford Avenue, mentioned being a cat rescuer and commented
on problems she is having with the City's Code Enforcement office regarding animals and other Code
issues. She felt she was being singled out and harassed.
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS FOR REMOVAL
Council Member Lawrence noted she would abstain from voting on Agenda Item VI -E -5,
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT FOR PARKS, CIVIC CENTER
FACILITIES, AND THE DOWNEY CEMETERY, inasmuch as she is a member of the Downey
Cemetery Board. (See action on Page 11)
Agenda Items VI -E -1, PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION ALLOCATION - FISCAL
YEAR 1998 -1999; VI -E -5, AGREEMENT WITH COMPLETE LANDSCAPE CARE, INC.;
and VI -F -2, LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPING DISTRICT A.D. 121, 1999 -2000 FISCAL
YEAR ASSESSMENT LEVY were removed from the Consent Calendar at the request of Council
Member Winningham.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Council Member McCarthy, seconded by Council Member Winningham, and
unanimously carried to waive further reading of the Resolutions and approve the remainder of
the Consent Calendar as recommended:
COUNCIL MINUTES: SPECIAL, ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETINGS,
MAY 11, 1999: Approve.
WARRANTS ISSUED: NO. 154550 — 155140: $1,653,374.49: Approve.
SELECTION OF LAW FIRM FOR PERSONNEL /LABOR RELATIONS MATTERS:
Authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement for special services between the City and
the law firm of Liebert, Cassidy and Frierson. This agreement will be ongoing until terminated
by either party: Approve.
APPEAL, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 99-08 — A REQUEST FOR ON -SALE
ALCOHOL AND ENTERTAINMENT IN A RESTAURANT FOR PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 8014 -18 TELEGRAPH ROAD, ZONED C -2 (GENERAL
COMMERCIAL) (Applicant: Lorenzo Sallas) (Appellant: Larry Rosenbaum, Ramco
Investment Co.): Set hearing for 7:30 p.m., May 25, 1999, in the Council Chamber of
Downey City Hall.
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JOINT PUBLIC HEARING WITH THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION TO CONSIDER THE DISPOSITION AND DEVELOPMENT
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
AND LOS ANGELES COMMUNITY DESIGN CENTER FOR THE SENIOR
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AT 8117, 8127 AND 8133 THIRD STREET: Set
hearing for 7:30 p.m., May 25, 1999, in the Council Chamber of Downey City Hall.
RESOLUTION NO. 6260 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING AN APPLICATION FOR STREET REHABILITATION FUNDS
FROM THE 1998 STATE TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENTS
PROGRAM (STIP) AUGMENTATION FUND
RESOLUTION NO. 6264 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF KATHLEEN RICHTER TO THE
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 2
RESOLUTION NO. 6265 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
GIVING NOTICE OF ITS INTENT TO INITIATE DETACHMENT AND
EXCLUSION PROCEEDINGS FROM THE WATER REPLENISHMENT
DISTRICT OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
ORDINANCES: None
RESOLUTIONS: None
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
ESTABLISH DATE FOR THE 1999 MAYORAL TRANSITION CEREMONY
Ms. McDonnell asked the Council to review their schedules and select a date.
It was the consensus of the Council to set the 1999 Mayoral Transition Ceremony for
7:00 p.m., June 29, 1999.
STATUS REPORT ON DOWNEY AVENUE STREET BEAUTIFICATION
Mr. Alvarez advised the Community Development Commission at its meeting on April 13,
1999, voted to adopt a tree program for Downey Avenue and directed staff to develop conceptual
designs for this area before the planting of the trees. He narrated a visual program showing six
alternatives to enhance the streetscape in this area and encourage new business. Suggestions included:
Additional landscaping, diagonal parking, center median, additional planters, decorative paving
treatments, enhanced lighting, street furniture, and additional lighting facilities. The cost would range
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• 11170
from $200,000 to $400,000, and with the addition of enhanced lighting, additional street furniture, and
installation of electrical outlets for future street events, could increase to the $700,000 - $800,000
range. He referred to traffic impacts from reduced lanes and diagonal parking, which could drop the
level of service in this area from a "C" to an "F" (the indicator of the amount of traffic that can be
adequately handled at an intersection), and significantly slow down traffic. He responded to
comments from the Council.
Mayor McCaughan expressed concern with the expenditure and stated he would feel more
comfortable if he knew what the chemistry would be for downtown or that a particular business
wanted to locate to that area. He was not willing to vote for anything at this point.
Council Member Lawrence concurred with Mayor McCaughan and requested more
information on the whole package.
Mr. Alvarez stated Downey Avenue does not function as a destination point now, it is a pass -
through point. If it changes to a destination point, traffic will be impacted, which is not necessarily
bad, and noted there are communities who look at this option and decide it is what they want. It is a
matter of taste and traffic would reroute to alternate paths. He suggested the Council focus on
whether they want to create this area as a destination point and then decide on what types of
businesses they want to draw to this street.
Council Member McCarthy suggested this issue be presented to the Traffic Committee for
review. He also suggested computer modeling to see where traffic might flow to alternate routes as
this would affect neighborhoods in the vicinity. He referred to the transit center project south of
Firestone Boulevard on Downey Avenue and suggested it be incorporated into the overall plan. He
noted there are consultants who could give staff a better idea based on computer modeling.
Council Member Perkins stated he would like to eliminate Alternatives 2, 3 and 6, which have
the level "F" service rating and increase parking by only 18 spaces.
Mr. Caton mentioned that Mr. Alvarez and Mr. George were involved in the Santa Monica
Third Street Promenade, which is now a destination area. He noted the Blue Ribbon Committee
walked through downtown and through the downtown areas of other cities, negotiated to purchase the
court house site, and decided to bring movie theatres and a parking structure to this area. He felt
something has to be done to begin the process and to soften the look of Downey Avenue. The
purpose tonight is to give staff direction on which way to go and he noted a consultant was hired to
determine what companies would have an interest in downtown and this report is due within the next
30 days.
Maria Larkin, 10603 Chaney Avenue, Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of
the Downtown Downey Merchants Committee, thanked Council Member Lawrence for being their
liaison in the effort to revitalize downtown. She challenged the Council to walk both sides of Downey
Avenue and talk to the merchants, who do not have adequate parking. She submitted a document
signed by 31 business owners pleading for help in getting downtown Downey underway. The business
owners do not want a median but feel that 18 extra parking spaces would be an improvement, and they
want Downey Avenue to be a destination point. She noted two events the Chamber sponsors on
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11171
Downey Avenue each year, the Street Faire and the Downey Holiday Lane Parade, which would not
be possible with a median and felt there was no other location suitable for these events in the City.
The merchants have chosen Alternative 6 as their preference.
Johnny Croshaw, 7524 Quinn Street, owner of Johnny & Company at 10921 Downey Avenue,
expressed excitement about this project and applauded Public Works for the choices presented, stating
the businesses unanimously chose Alternative No. 6. He supported Class "F" traffic designation,
which would assist in making this area a destination point and indicated he plans to expand his
business to beautify the property next door. He felt that angled parking would mean 77 legitimate
parking space as opposed to 55 parallel spaces.
Vicki VanLeuven, 10031 Lesterford Avenue, felt that investing a lot of money on Downey
Avenue would not encourage more people to go to the theatre, as she felt they would still go to the
theatres in the malls, where other business attractions are more accessible. Also, there is nothing on
Downey Avenue to draw people, referring to the appeal in other areas, such as Seal Beach, Santa
Monica, and Pasadena. She noted the funds for this project could be better spent in other areas,
suggesting a no -kill animal shelter.
Oscar Servantes, owner of Avenue Press printing and copying center at 11136 Downey
Avenue, concurred with Mr. Croshaw's comments and felt the focus should be on a destination point.
He noted Class "F" does not mean a bad thing and felt that other businesses would come to the area, if
it was a place that people wanted to walk through and browse. He did not want the Council and City
to close its ears because of the Class "F" designation and mentioned the history of Downey Avenue.
He said, with the theatre in place, the City has to look at this area and not put it aside, stating there are
a lot of possibilities on this street.
Eva Pokteva, owner of Eva's Flowers at the intersection of Downey Avenue and Second
Street, stated parking is a big problem in this area and felt the businesses on Downey Avenue would
do better with help from the City. She encouraged residents to shop in Downey instead of going to
other areas.
Robert Sevallo, owner of Bill Hannen Travel, Downey Avenue and Third Street, supported the
comments from the prior business owners and encouraged the Council not to put this project on the
shelf, but to give businesses their support.
It was moved by Council Member Lawrence and seconded by Council Member Winningham to
have stag review Study No. 6 and to bring more information back to the Council on how this
would be accomplished. (Refer to the amended motion below for the final vote).
Mayor McCaughan requested that the information be brought back with an economic study.
Council Member McCarthy requested the motion be amended to have the Traffic Committee
review the information and present their input and that the Committee be given all the information the
Council received, noting the Council preferred Study No. 6.
Council Member Lawrence concurred and asked that it be on the next available Traffic
Committee Agenda.
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An amended motion was made by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member
Winningham, and unanimously carried to have staff review Study No. 6 and bring additional
information back to the Council on how this could be accomplished; and to refer all
information to the Traffic Committee for their next Agenda, noting the Council's preference
was Study No. 6.
The meeting recessed at 10:44 p.m. and reconvened at 10:49 p.m. with all Council Members
present.
UNDERGROUND UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 17 UDATE — STREET LIGHT DESIGN
CONSULTANT AUTHORIZATION
Mr. Alvarez advised the undergrounding on Imperial Highway commenced approximately one
year ago and is a three -phase project with completion scheduled for the year 2005. Southern
California Edison has completed its design and General Telephone (GTE) and MediaOne Cable are
scheduled to begin their design, which should allow Phase I to begin by November 1, 1999. At the
time the undergrounding project was approved, it was also decided to install enhanced street lighting
along the entire length of Imperial Highway. This system was to be designed and built by the City and
performed in parallel with the undergrounding system. He responded to comments from the Council.
It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member Winningham, and
unanimously carried to authorize the City Attorney to prepare, and the Mayor to execute, an
agreement with Katz, Okitsu & Associates in the amount of $25,000 to prepare plans,
specifications, and estimates for the installation of street lighting along the length of Imperial
Highway from the Westerly City limit to the Easterly City limit.
MODIFICATIONS TO 2 FLOOR OFFICE SPACE AND APPROPRIATION OF
$55,000 FROM THE GENERAL FUND FOR THE WORK
Mr. Alvarez explained that the second floor of City Hall houses Public Works Administration,
Engineering, Community Services, and Personnel Departments and the Downey City Employees
Federal Credit Union. The Engineering Department is in the south wing of the 2 " Floor, while Public
Works Administration is in the east wing. The proposal is to reconfigure this floor to locate Public
Works in one area. He reviewed benefits to the Public Works Department from this change and noted
it would also create an additional conference room.
It was moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member McCarthy, and
' unanimously carried to authorize modifications to the 2 floor office space and appropriate
$55,000 from the General Fund for said work.
CONSIDER LOCATION FOR INSTALLATION OF BRONZE PLAQUE
Mayor McCaughan suggested continuing this item to the meeting of May 25, 1999, and the
other Council Member concurred.
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OTHER BUSINESS - Consent Calendar - Items removed by Council Approval
PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION ALLOCATION - FISCAL YEAR 1998 -1999
Council Member Winningham asked if these funds could be used to create a reading patio area
on the north side of the Library building and was informed that funds cannot be used for a
construction project. He suggested funds for a reading patio project be reviewed in the future.
It was moved by Council Member Winningham, seconded by Council Member Lawrence, and
unanimously carried to accept the increase of $36,973 in the Public Library Foundation
allocation for the Downey City Library and authorize expenditure for facility maintenance, and
information and lending services.
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT FOR PARKS, CIVIC CENTER
FACILITIES, AND THE DOWNEY CEMETERY
Council Member Winningham mentioned he was pleased with the agreement reached with the
new landscaping service. He noted the new contractor, formerly Murray's Landscaping, services the
cities of Santa Fe Springs and Buena Park and does an excellent job in these areas.
It was moved by Council Member Winningham, seconded by Council Member McCarthy, and
carried by the following vote to approve a contract with Complete Landscape Care, Inc. for
landscape maintenance services for parks, civic center facilities, and the Downey Cemetery.
AYES 4 Council Members: McCarthy, Perkins, Winningham, McCaughan
ABSTAIN 1 Council Members: Lawrence
Prior to the vote, Council Member Lawrence noted she would abstain from voting, as she is a
member of the Downey Cemetery Board.
LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPING DISTRICT A.D. 121, FISCAL YEAR 1999 - 00
Council Member Winningham asked if the City collects the funds and then pays the Southern
California Edison Company for the maintenance on the street lights and the response was yes.
Mr. Alvarez advised that staff assists the Edison Company by reporting street lights in
disrepair.
Council Member Winningham requested staff write a letter to Southern California Edison
Company to encourage them to perform better maintenance, stating there are many street lights out in
the community.
RESOLUTION NO. 6261
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ORDERING THE ENGINEER TO PREPARE AND FILE A REPORT ON
ASSESSMENTS WITHIN LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPING DISTRICT A.D.
121 FOR FISCAL YEAR 1999 -00
Council Minutes 5/11/99 -11
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RESOLUTION NO. 6262
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR ASSESSMENTS WITHIN
LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPING DISTRICT A.D. 121 FOR FISCAL YEAR
1999 -00
RESOLUTION NO. 6263
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT LIGHTING AND
LANDSCAPING ASSESSMENTS WITHIN LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPING
DISTRICT A.D. 121 FOR FISCAL YEAR 1999 -00
The Resolutions were read by title only It was moved by Council Member Lawrence,
,
seconded by Council Member Winningham, and unanimously carried to waive further reading and
adopt the three Resolutions; and set the public hearing for 7:30 p.m., June 8, 1999, in the
Council Chamber of Downey City Hall.
OTHER BUSINESS - Council Members
Council Member Winningham asked if the City had hired a new Traffic Engineer and was
informed a new Principal Engineer has been hired and that the City is still recruiting for a Traffic
Engineer. He then requested that staff review the following items in the interim period before a new
Traffic Engineer is hired: Parking on Firestone Boulevard between Lakewood Boulevard and
Rives Avenue and whether businesses in this area have off-street parking; The gas station on the
corner of Telegraph Road & True Avenue, where diesels and other large trucks are turning onto
True Avenue, which is a residential street; and Excessive speed of traffic on Chaney Avenue at
Gotham Street along the east side of East Middle School, where a lot of children are present.
Council Member Winningham asked Police and Code Enforcement to review the high usage T
g
of Wilderness Park and the overflow of parking onto Little Lake Road, which is blocking
driveways.
Council Member Winningham mentioned Kidsday and the Viking Awards at Downey High
and acknowledged the Downey Unified School District and City for honoring these students.
Council Member Perkins noted the City's many outstanding students as evidenced by the Hall
of Fame awards presentation at the Downey Theatre.
Council Member Perkins acknowledged the Kidsday event last Saturday and thanked the
Police Department for patrolling the area; mentioning he tried to enter the watermelon contest but
being overage; and thanked Community Services Director Jim Jarrett and Bonnie Kehoe for
coordinating this outstanding event.
Council Member McCarthy asked staff to review the request of Judy Jacobson regarding
increasing the number of garage sales allowed per year for charitable, nonprofit organizations.
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Council Member McCarthy noted a former gas station at the northeast corner of
Gardendale Street and Downey Avenue, which has been vacant for some time and is a blight. He
asked Code Enforcement to take a look.
Council Member McCarthy complimented the Street Faire event and the involvement of the
Downey Chamber of Commerce, and the Police, Fire and Public Works Departments.
Council Member McCarthy complimented the Fire Department's Open House at Station 1.
Council Member McCarthy noted that Building Official Linda Haines has returned from her
recent illness and welcomed her back.
Council Member Lawrence mentioned the 12600 block of Dunrobin is having problems with
late -night ice cream vendors and also with speeding vehicles that run the stop sign at Angell Street,
and asked for more Police presence in that area.
Council Member Lawrence requested information regarding the Private Industry Council's
capital project in search of new headquarters, how their programs are going and their mission for the
next 5 -10 years.
Mayor McCaughan acknowledged Kidsday and the Golden Bear Awards at Warren High
School, noting there are many outstanding young adults in the community.
Mayor McCaughan mentioned he is the Chairman of the Southeast Water Coalition and
noted it was mentioned at the last meeting that the problem of contaminants has now reached the
Whittier Narrows Dam. He advised that the Environmental Protection Agency and State water
resources have been engaged to remediate this problem.
OTHER BUSINESS - Staff Members
Mr. Caton indicated the Judge ruled against the FEMA (flood control) lawsuit, which was
instituted by a group of cities in the area.
ADJOURNMENT: 11:20 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned in memory of Jack Garland, former City Planning
g
Commissioner, and Victor Max, former City Purchasing Manager, to 6:30 p.m., May 25, 1999,
in the Council Chamber of Downey City Cit Hall.
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udith E. McDonnell, City Clerk Gary P. cCaughan, { . or
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