HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 12-14-99 - Regular Meeting MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DECEMBER 14, 1999
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Certificate of Appointment to Matthew Pizzo, Parking Place
Commission, Dist. 5 1
Removal of Items from Consent Calendar 1
Council Minutes: Adj. & Reg. Mtgs. 11/23/99 & Special Called
Mtg. 12/6/99 Approved 2
Cash Contract #S.S. 479/481 — Woodruff Av. storm drain/
pavement rehabilitation Imperial Hwy to Hall Rd.: Accept the
improvements & maint. responsibility for improvements
constructed & approve the extra work under Change Order 1 Approved 2
Cash Contract #S.S. 499 — Paramount Bi. at Suva St., protected
north/southbound left -turn signal phases: Approve plans &
specs. & grant authority to advertise for bids Approved 2
Warrants Issued: 3 706 — 4377, $2,535,525.62 Approved 2
General Plan Amendment #99 -42 & Zone Change #99 -43 —
a req. for a general plan amendment from neighborhood
commercial to general commercial & a zone change from Set hrg. 7:30 p.m.
R -1 and M -1 to C -2 for property at 13535 Lakewood Bl. 1/11/2000 2
Appropriation of Supplemental Literacy Grant Funds Approved 2
Appropriation Adjustment — Encumbrances FY 1998. -99 Approved 2
Initiate request for proposals to update the General Plan
Housing Element & prepare Housing & Urban Development
Consolidated Plan: Adopt a Minute Action initiating a
request for proposals for consultants to prepare Housing
Chapter Approved 3
Completion of architectural services for emergency operations
center and fire station renovation: Approve the completion
of the services of John bates Assoc. & appropriate $31,000
for said services Approved 3
PAGE 1 OF 5
COUNCIL MINUTES, DECEMBER 14, 1999
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Res. #6312, adopting a class specification & establishing
a salary range for Assistant Finance Director & designating
classification as Middle Management Adopted 3
Res. #6313, consenting to the establishment of the portion
of Telegraph Rd. over the Rio Hondo Channel as part of the
System of Highways of the County of L. A. Adopted 3
Req. from the Downey Los Amigos Kiwanis and Soroptimist
Int'l Clubs of Downey to store props in the basement of the
Downey Theatre for future use by theatre groups Approved 5
Lennie Whittington commented on Council Members'
working hard, & putting in long hours; expressed his respect
for the McCaughan family; and read financial info. re DCH
Health Services Corp. for tax year 1997 5
John Lacey, President of the Downey Chamber of Commerce
wished everyone a happy holiday & thanked the Fire & Police
Chiefs for their outstanding service to the City 5
Res. #6311, adopting the Memorandum of Understanding
between the City & the Downey City Employees' Assoc./
Maint. Unit Adopted 6
Proposed amendments to the Lakewood/Firestone Specific
Plan #91 -2A; & an appeal to Specific Plan Amendment
#91- 2A/Conditional Use Permit #99- 29/Tentative Parcel
Map #99 -25643 (Applicant: City of Downey/Downey Set hrg. 7:30 p.m.
Hospitality Development, LLC) (Appellant: Arvin Parekh) 1/11/2000 6
Res. #6314, authorizing the filing of an application for the
Local Law Enforcement Block Grants Program Adopted 6
Res. #6315, approving a second amended & restated Joint
Exercise of Powers Agreement for the provision of
Federally funded job-training & other social services Adopted 7
Geographic Information System utility conversion contract Continued 7
Appointment to the Board of Trustees of the Greater Los Resolution to
Angeles County Vector Control District: Cn. Perkins be brought
agreed to serve back 8
PAGE2OF5
COUNCIL MINUTES, DECEMBER 14, 1999
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Response to request for info. pertaining to the Gates Library
Initiative & the Library Construction Bond Act: Direct
City Manager to req. a report from the City Librarian detailing
the two programs & the appropriations required Ref. to staff 8
Cn. McCaughan mentioned two beautification projects he
wished to have considered for inclusion in next year's budget 8
Cn. McCaughan acknowledged his gratitude to Chief Caldwell
for a job well done 8
Cn. McCaughan mentioned comments in the newspaper after
the 12/6/99 meeting & read an article from the Parade
Magazine section of the Press Telegram requesting people's
outlook for the next century 8
Cn. Perkins thanked Chief Caldwell for an outstanding job 9
Cn. Perkins mentioned attending the Miss Downey & Miss
Teen Downey contests at the Downey Civic Theatre 9
Cn. Perkins ref. to an improvement project on Imperial Hwy.
& req. a report explaining why it is behind schedule & what
is being done to get it back on schedule Ref to staff 9
Cn. Perkins wished everyone a Very Merry Christmas &
Happy & Prosperous New Year 9
Cn. Lawrence req. adding an area to Cn. McCaughan's req.
for improvements in Districts 2 & 4, mentioning the area on
the east side of Bellflower Bl., south of Imperial Hwy. 9
Cn. Lawrence req. info. on when the protected left turn
signals are to be installed at Firestone Bl. & Downey Av. 9
Cn. Lawrence suggested a presentation be given in Jan. or
Feb. about the state of the City 9
Cn. Lawrence ref. to the Imperial Hwy. frontage of Columbus
High School & asked staff to req. a written response from the
Downey Unified School District Board on their intentions for
the property 9
PAGE 3 OF 5
COUNCIL MINUTES, DECEMBER 14,
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT
ACTION PAGE NO.
Cn. Lawrence thanked Chief Caldwell for his time with the
City of Downey
9
Cn. Lawrence wished everyone a Merry Christmas & Happy
appY
New Year
9
Cn. Lawrence ack. Betty Skelton, Library Commissioner,
Y � ry ss oner,
Dist. 5
9
Cn. Winningham thanked Cn. McCaughan for pointing out
areas in Dist. 4 in need of improvement, noting he has already
addressed this with the Public Works Dept.
9
Cn. Winningham commented on an idea from a community
member to add a community calendar for future events to
the City's Website 10
Cn. Winningham thanked Chief Caldwell for his many faithful
years of service to Downey 10
Mayor McCarthy introduced David Gafin, Planning Commissioner,
& Debbie Black, Library Commissioner, for Dist. 1 10
Mayor McCarthy mentioned attending the volunteer recognition
event for the Library 10
Mayor McCarthy thanked Downey Chamber of Commerce
President, John Lacey for the outstanding Holiday Lane Parade 10
Mayor McCarthy commented on the awards for homes with
exceptional holiday decorations 10
Mayor McCarthy re the release of the State Auditor's report
on activities of the Water Replenishment District 10
Mayor McCarthy ref. to the selection of the final developer
for the NASA site, the Ezralow Co. 10
Mr. Caton mentioned that Chief Irwin is also retiring at the
end of the year but will continue to serve while another Chief is
sought 10
PAGE 4 OF 5
COUNCIL MINUTES, DECEMBER 14, 1999
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Mr. Caton mentioned that Chief Caldwell has done a wonderful
job and will be missed 10
r-.. Mr. Caton mentioned that two members of Congress visited
City Hall within the last few days 10
Mr. Caton pointed out he has been the sole City Manager for
10 years 10
Adj. in memory of former Mayor and Council Member
William Greene, and Bill Wenzel, owner of Wenzel's Music
Town in Downey 11
Meeting adjourned to 6:30 p. m., January 11, 2000 11
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13346
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DECEMBER 14, 1999
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:35 p.m., December 14,
1999, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Keith McCarthy presiding.
8
PRESENT: Council Members:
Keith McCarthy Mayor
Joyce L. Lawrence Mayor Pro Tem
Robert C. Winningham
Meredith H. Perkins
ABSENT: Gary P. McCaughan, M.D. (arrived at 8:50 p.m.)
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
Christina Garcia, Special Projects Coordinator
Vicki Jenkins, City Librarian
Kevin O'Connor, Theatre Manager
Ed Velasco, Manager of Housing
Steven Yee, Economic Development Coordinator
June Yotsuya, Assistant to the City Manager
Shirley Conte, Executive Secretary
PRESENTATIONS
Matthew Pizzo was not present to receive his Certificate of Appointment to the Parking
Place Commission, District 5.
HEARING None
No e
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS FOR REMOVAL
Agenda Item VI -B, CORRESPONDENCE FROM DOWNEY LOS AMIGOS KIWANIS
AND SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF DOWNEY TO STORE PROPS IN THE
BASEMENT OF DOWNEY THEATRE FOR FUTURE USE BY THEATRE GROUPS, was
removed at the request of Council Member Lawrence and Robert Brazelton, 10029 Birchdale Avenue.
Council Minutes 12/14/99 -1-
13347
Agenda Item VI -F -1, ADOPTION OF MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE DOWNEY CITY EMPLOYEES'
ASSOCIATION/MAINTENANCE UNIT, was removed at the request of Robert Bryan.
Agenda Item VI -E -1, SETTING THE PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR THE PROPOSED
AMENDMENTS TO THE LAKEWOOD/FIRESTONE SPECIFIC PLAN #91 -2A; AND AN
APPEAL TO SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 91-2A/CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
NO. 99- 29/TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP NO. 99-25643, was removed at the request of Lennie
Whittington, 8 542 Manatee Street.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Council Member Winningham, seconded by Council Member Lawrence, and
unanimously carried to waive further reading of the Resolutions and approve the remainder of
the Consent Calendar as recommended:
COUNCIL MINUTES: ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETINGS, NOVEMBER 23,
1999 AND SPECIAL CALLED MEETING, DECEMBER 6, 1999: Approve.
CASH CONTRACT NO. S.S. 479/481— WOODRUFF AVENUE STORM
DRAIN/PAVEMENT REHABILITATION IMPERIAL HIGHWAY TO HALL ROAD
(ACCOUNT NOS. 26 -16479 AND 26- 16481): Accept the improvements, maintenance
responsibility for the improvements constructed and approve the extra work under Change
Order No. 1, totaling $5,834.78: Approve.
CASH CONTRACT NO. S.S. 499 — PARAMOUNT BOULEVARD AT SUVA STREET,
PROTECTED NORTH/SOUTHBOUND LEFT -TURN SIGNAL PHASES (ACCOUNT
NO. 26-16454): Approve plans and specifications and grant authority to advertise for bids:
Approve.
WARRANTS ISSUED: NO. 3706 — 4377, $2,535,525.62: Approve.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 99-42 AND ZONE CHANGE NO. 99-43 — A
REQUEST FOR A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT FROM NEIGHBORHOOD
COMMERCIAL TO GENERAL COMMERCIAL AND A ZONE CHANGE FROM
R -1 (SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL.) AND M -1 (LIGHT MANUFACTURING) TO
C -2 (GENERAL COMMERCIAL) FOR .PROPERTY AT 13535 LAKEWOOD
BOULEVARD: Set hearing for 7:30 p.rn., January 11, 2000, in the Council Chamber of
Downey City Hall: Approve.
APPROPRIATION OF SUPPLEMENTAL LITERACY GRANT FUNDS: Appropriate
$2,651 of additional funds: Approve.
APPROPRIATION ADJUSTMENT - ENCUMBRANCES, FISCAL YEAR 1998 -99:
Approve the carry- forward budget items and the Appropriation Adjustments: Approve. ,
Council Minutes 12/14/99 -2-
13348
INITIATE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS TO UPDATE THE GENERAL PLAN
HOUSING ELEMENT AND PREPARE HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
(HUD) CONSOLIDATED PLAN: Adopt a Minute Action initiating a request for proposals
for consultants to prepare the Housing Chapter of the General Plan and the Housing
Consolidated Plan: Approve.
COMPLETION OF ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES FOR EMERGENCY
OPERATIONS CENTER AND FIRE STATION RENOVATION: Approve the
completion of the architectural services of John Bates Associates for the renovation of the City
Emergency Operations Center and headquarters fire station and appropriate $31,000 for said
services: Approve.
RESOLUTION NO. 6312 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ADOPTING A CLASS SPECIFICATION AND ESTABLISHING A SALARY
RANGE FOR ASSISTANT FINANCE DIRECTOR AND DESIGNATING THIS
CLASSIFICATION AS MIDDLE MANAGEMENT
RESOLUTION NO. 6313 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
CONSENTING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PORTION OF
TELEGRAPH ROAD OVER THE RIO HONDO CHANNEL WITHIN SAID
CITY AS PART OF THE SYSTEM OF HIGHWAYS OF THE COUNTY OF
LOS ANGELES
OTHER BUSINESS - Consent Calendar - Items removed by Council Approval
REQUEST FROM THE DOWNEY LOS AMIGOS KIWANIS AND SOROPTIMIST
INTERNATIONAL CLUBS OF DOWNEY TO STORE PROPS IN THE BASEMENT
OF THE DOWNEY THEATRE FOR FUTURE USE BY THEATER GROUPS
Council Member Lawrence signified she did not want to deny this request.
Mr. Jarrett explained the two clubs produced a play at the theatre last year and have requested
a 20 foot by 20 foot space in the basement of the theatre to store material from their play production
this year. Staff reviewed the request; is concerned that other City organizations will also request
theatre storage space; and on this basis, staff recommends the Council maintain the current policy of
not permitting groups to utilize the basement of the theatre for storage. He noted staff is willing to
work with these organizations to seek alternative storage locations.
Bob Goldstein, 11000 Woodruff Avenue, commented on the performance of the Odd Couple
Play, which was done last year by the two clubs and was successful in raising funds to enable the clubs
to support various City charities, organizations and events. Since they intend to continue producing
plays, they decided to build their own sets for the upcoming Rumors Play. The Theatre Manager was
contacted about utilizing 20 foot by 20 foot space in the theatre's basement for storage of the props
from this year's play, which would be available and anyone renting the theatre would be welcome to
Council Minutes 12/14/99 -3-
1334)
use the sets and props. He suggested their availability might encourage someone to initiate a
children's theatre again in Downey. He read a portion of the review by Downey Eagle Reporter John
Adams of last year's play, and urged the Council to approve the requested storage space.
Dave Gaffin, 12236 Eastbrook Avenue, President of the Downey Los Amigos Kiwanis Club,
reiterated the prior request, stating these clubs produce fundraising plays to fund the various charitable
projects they undertake. He mentioned City organizations and events sponsored by the Kiwanis Club,
advising that outside storage would cost about $2,000 to $3,000 per year, reducing funds for other
projects. He noted the Clubs anticipate a new production each year where the sets will be utilized,
stating they can also be used by other non - profit groups, which could increase theatre use and funds to
the City. He urged the Council to allow the use of theatre storage space.
Council Member Perkins inquired as to what rules should be established to monitor the storage
and use of sets and props and was informed if it is a theatrical production by a non - profit group, they
should be able to store them under the theatre. He also asked how the clubs would eliminate the need
from successive productions for additional storage, and was informed sets can be re- figured and used
over and over.
Mr. Goldstein advised there would never be a need for more than a 20 foot x 20 foot space, as
the clubs will always produce one set plays and have more than enough material for most sets.
Council Member Perkins commented on touring the theatre basement today where items that
were used five or six years ago have been left. He felt that each request should be taken on an
individual basis and that rules need to be in place, such as no storage of food items; all materials must
be flame retardant; and there can only be storage, with no consideration for painting or fabricating of
sets or props. He suggested a clause whereby the storage area must be cleaned up, if play production
is discontinued for more than one year. He suggested these items be released to the City, as City
property.
Mr. Gafin suggested a rider be applied that the City does not decide before a certain time
'� period to discard the items.
Laura Lueke, 8373 La Villa Street, President of Soroptimist International of Downey,
explained the club's mission and mentioned various City organizations, events, scholarships, etc., that
are assisted through their fundraising efforts. She stated having a set that can be used from year to
year, would be a tremendous cost savings for these groups and asked the Council to approve the
request.
Bob Brazelton, 10029 Birchdale Avenue, mentioned touring the theatre basement and noted
most of the items presently stored there are from the Downey Civic Light Opera. He felt the theatre is
for use by the community and would be utilized more, if props and sets were available. He invited
everyone to attend the play on January 20 and 21, 2000, noting fliers are available at the back of the
Council Chamber.
Council Member Lawrence indicated she would support the use of storage space by these
groups but felt that guidelines need to be in place. She suggested revisiting the issue, if there is a lull
in production and plays do not remain an annual event.
Council Minutes 12/14/99 -4-
j33 5O
Council Member McCaughan returned to the meeting at 8:50 p.m.
Council Member Winningham concurred with the comments by Council Member Perkins and
felt the property should be donated to the City for community usage. He requested a clause be
inserted that the City has the right to dispose of the property, if it is not used for one or two years. He
agreed that no construction or rehabilitation of sets is to take place at the theatre.
Council Member McCaughan noted he would abstain from voting, as he was not present for
the discussion of this item.
It was moved by Mayor McCarthy, seconded by Council Member Lawrence, and unanimously
carried, with the abstention as noted, to approve the use of a 20 foot x 20 foot storage area in the
basement of the Downey Civic Theatre by the Downey Los Amigos Kiwanis and Soroptimist
International Clubs.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Lennie Whittington, 8 542 Manatee Street, referred to the last Council Meeting and addressed
Council Members McCaughan and Lawrence by saying he felt all the Council Members work hard
and put in long hours; expressed his respect for the McCaughan family; and read financial
information obtained from the Internet regarding DCH (Downey Community Hospital) Health
Services Corporation for tax year 1997.
John Lacey, 8419 Dacosta Street, President of the Downey Chamber of Commerce, wished
everyone a happy holiday and thanked the Fire and Police Chiefs for their outstanding service to the
City.
OTHER BUSINESS - Consent Calendar - Items removed by Council Approval (Cont.)
ADOPTION OF MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY
OF DOWNEY AND THE DOWNEY CITY EMPLOYEES' ASSOCIATION/ -
MAINTENANCE UNIT
Bob Bryan, President of the Downey City Employees' Association /Maintenance Unit,
expressed his gratitude and appreciation, on behalf of the Maintenance Unit's members for the
contract achieved this year. He felt it was good for the City and the Maintenance Unit and helped
achieve parity with surrounding cities. He expressed a special word of thanks to Assistant City
Manager Lee Powell and to Personnel Director Chris Birch for their help in reaching the agreement
and in solving other issues and wished everyone the warmest of holidays and a very happy New Year.
RESOLUTION NO. 6311
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ADOPTING THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE
CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE DOWNEY CITY EMPLOYEES'
ASSOCIATION /MAINTENANCE UNIT
Council Minutes 12/14/99 -5-
13351
The Resolution was 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.
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE LAKEWOOD/FIRESTONE SPECIFIC
PLAN NO. 91-2A; AND AN APPEAL TO SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 91-
2A/CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 99-29/TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP NO. 99-
25643 (APPLICANT: CITY OF DOWNEY /DOWNEY HOSPITALITY
DEVELOPMENT, LLC) (APPELLANT: ARVIN PAREKH)
Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street, referred to Recommendation "b" on the staff
report, noting it was his understanding this item had to come before the Council, as the Planning
Commission's recommendation was advisory only, and questioned the appeal fee paid by
Mr. Parekh.
Mr. Vose advised he would confer with staff on this inquiry.
It was moved by Council Member Winningham, seconded by Council Member Lawrence,
and unanimously carried to set the public hearing for 7:30 p.m., January 11, 2000, in the
Council Chamber of Downey City Hall.
ORDINANCES: None
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 6314
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF AN APPLICATION FOR THE LOCAL LAW
ENFORCEMENT BLOCK GRANTS .PROGRAM
Chief Caldwell explained this is a Federal Law Enforcement Block Grant Program where
the Police Department must decide what it will use the money for; take its recommendations to a
selected committee; bring the recommendations before the Council for approval; and then file the
application. This year the City will receive $137,222, with a required ten - percent match by the
City, which is taken from Asset Forfeiture Expenditure Funds. He advised the funds have in the
past been used for the ongoing purchase of computer equipment for the Police Department, with
$20,000 allocated to continue the Citizens Academy Program. He responded to comments from
� res p
the Council.
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Winningham,
seconded by Council Member Lawrence, and unanimously carried to waive further reading and
adopt.
Prior to the vote, Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street, mentioned having the
opportunity to attend the Citizens Academy, noting it was very enlightening and well taught and
encouraged everyone to attend.
Council Minutes 12/14/99 -6-
3352
RESOLUTION NO. 6315
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING A SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED JOINT EXERCISE OF
POWERS AGREEMENT FOR THE PROVISION OF FEDERALLY FUNDED
JOB - TRAINING AND OTHER SOCIAL SERVICES TO RESIDENTS OF THE
CITY
Ms. Yotsuya noted, pursuant to the Federal Job Training Partnership Act (JPA) and as
designated by the State of California, the cities of Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, Downey, Hawaiian
Gardens, Lakewood, and Norwalk, established the Private Industry Council of Southeast Los
Angeles County (SELACO PIC) along with the Policy Board of the Southeast Los Angeles County
Service Delivery Area (SELACO SDA) to provide federally funded job training programs in its
communities. Effective July 1, 2000, the Federal Government will replace the Job Training
Partnership Act with a new Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and as a result, it is necessary to
restructure the SELACO SDA and its two governing boards, the Policy Board and the PIC, as
local service providers under the new WIA. The new amended JPA establishes a Policy Board and
the rules by which it operates; it does not define the division of power responsibility between the
Polic y Board and the PIC, which is soon to be retitled the Workforce Investment Board (WIB).
The division of labor is to be determined by a contract between the Policy Board and the PIC,
which is to be drafted and negotiated earlier next year. She described changes in the new
amendment, noting staff recommends adoption of the Resolution approving the second amended
agreement to the JPA for federally funded job training programs within the City.
Mayor McCarthy noted he represents Downey as the elected representative on the Policy
Board of the PIC, and stated the SELACO PIC has improved dramatically over the past several
years. He referred to changes recommended and felt it would benefit the member cities to continue
the Joint Powers Agreement.
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Mayor McCarthy, seconded by
Council Member Winningham, and unanimously carried to waive further reading and adopt.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM UTILITY CONVERSION CONTRACT
Mr. Caton requested this item be pulled, noting it will be returned to the Council at a later
meeting.
OTHER BUSINESS - Council Members
APPOINTMENT TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE GREATER LOS
ANGELES COUNTY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT
Mayor McCarthy advised that Council Member Lawrence has represented the City for six
years on the Vector Control District Board and would like to take a break. He asked the Councifto
select one of its other members to serve, at which time Council Member Perkins agreed to serve.
Council Minutes 12/14/99 -7-
13353
Upon motion by Council Member McCaughan and second by Council Member Winningham, am, it
was noted a resolution would be brought back for action by the Council.
RESPONSE TO REQUEST FOR INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE "GATES
LIBRARY INITIATIVE" AND THE "LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION BOND ACT"
Council Member McCaughan commented on reading the minutes from the City's various
Boards and Commissions, referring to two programs noted in the Library Advisory Board's minutes:
The Gates Library Initiative, which is a grant system the City has applied to, noting the second page
refers to items not covered by the grant and requested the Council's support for additional funds
required, if the grant is received; and Library Construction Bonds (SB3), which also require a 35
percent local match, if the City qualifies. He noted projects in the best competitive position for
funding are those projects ready to go immediately, where much of the preliminary work has been
completed in advance and the source of the matching funds has been identified. He felt the City's
Library is underbuilt in terms of square footage per citizen and that these programs are a wa y for the
City to address this problem by only expending 35 percent of the total project. He requested the
Council's approval to authorize the Library to develop the third paragraph items to insure they qualify
q fY
and are ready to go forward with a project.
Mr. Caton suggested the City Librarian, Ms. Jenkins, put together a program to be brought
back to the Council for authorization of the expenditures needed, to which she agreed. He also
complimented her efforts in providing the information required to apply for these programs.
It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Perkins, and
unanimously carried to direct the City Manager to request a report from the City Librarian
detailing these two programs and the appropriations required to enable the City to be
competitive from moment one on the Gates Library Initiative and Library Construction Bond
Act programs.
Council Member McCaughan mentioned two beautification projects that have not been
--� completed since he served as Chairman of the Keep Downey Beautiful Committee. He requested they
be considered for inclusion in next year's budget: District 4, west side of Lakewood Boulevard,
between Gallatin Road and Florence Avenue, where four sections have block walls visible to the street
and is not pedestrian friendly; and District 2, west side of Paramount Boulevard, from Imperial
Highway to Consuelo Street, where bushes were previously removed, which opened up chain link
fences and backyards to the street and does not give a good impression of the City.
Council Member McCaughan acknowledged his gratitude to Chief Caldwell for a job well
done, noting the Chief took charge of the department during a critical juncture in the City and carried
out the mission the Council asked him to perform.
Council Member McCaughan mentioned being bothered by comments he read in the
newspaper after the December 6, 1999, Council Meeting. He felt the City had to have a vision for
the next century and read an article from the Parade Magazine Section of the Press Telegram, written
by Marilyn Vos Savant, where people were asked to provide their outlook on what the next century
holds and what they felt they will need to be happy in it. He noted the Council operates from the
position of strength, represents the voter, and sets the environment for what is considered the standard
Council Minutes 12/14/99 -8-
I 3 3 5
for the community. He felt the seven principles noted in the article apply to many City departments
and felt that everyone is here to work together, asking everyone not to lose track of the clarity of
vision.
Council Member Perkins thanked Chief Caldwell for an outstanding job and mentioned he
had the opportunity to work with the Chief on two occasions.
Council Member Perkins mentioned attending the Miss Downey and Miss Teen Downey
contests at the Downey Civic Theatre, noting the new court will be on the City's Rose Float entry this
coming January.
Council Member Perkins referred to an improvement project on Imperial Highway, noting
it is behind schedule. He requested the project be assigned to a staff member and that a report be
brought back to the Council at the second meeting in January explaining why it is behind schedule. He
also requested recommendations on what is being done to get the project back on schedule.
Council Member Perkins wished everyone a Very Merry Christmas and Happy and
Prosperous New Year.
Council Member Lawrence requested adding an area to Council Member McCaughan's
request for improvements in Districts 2 and 4, noting the area on the east side of Bellflower
Boulevard, south of Imperial Highway, has bare fencing with dirt and glass that could benefit from
some greenery or other improvements.
Council Member Lawrence requested information on when the protected left turn signals are
due to be installed at Firestone Boulevard and Downey Avenue.
Council Member Lawrence, reiterating on Council Member McCaughan's comments regarding
the future of the City, suggested a presentation be given in January or February about the state
of the City, including a view of what is on the horizon for the next few years.
Council Member Lawrence referred to the Imperial Highway frontage of Columbus High
School and asked staff to request a written response from the Downey Unified School District Board
to clarify their intentions for this property.
Council Member Lawrence thanked Chief Caldwell for his time with the City.
Council Member Lawrence wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Council Member Lawrence acknowledged Betty Skelton, Library Commissioner, District 5.
Council Member Winningham thanked Council Member McCaughan for pointing out the area
in District 4 in need of improvement, noting he has already addressed this with the Public Works
Department, who determined it was Caltrans' property. He advised that the City is currently in
negotiations to assume responsibility for Lakewood Boulevard, noting he requested the allocation
of funds for these improvements during the past budget study session.
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Council Member Winningham commented on an idea from a communit y member, which was
to add a one -year community calendar for future events to the City's Website, which would earmark
the events by different service organizations. He mentioned he receiving an E -mail from the Mayor
regarding links to other Downey based web sites, such as the Downey Chamber of Commerce and
Downey Rose Float Association and hoped to see these links added as the web site progresses.
Council Member Winningham thanked Chief Caldwell for many faithful years of service to
Downey.
Mayor McCarthy introduced David Gafin, Planning Commissioner, and Debbie Black,
Library Commissioner, for District 1, and thanked them for their work.
Mayor McCarthy mentioned attending the volunteer recognition event for the Library,
noting the number of volunteers present.
Mayor McCarthy thanked Downey Chamber of Commerce President, John Lacey, for the
Chamber's outstanding Holiday Lane Parade. He noted the Clydesdale horses were a nice addition.
Mayor McCarthy commented on the awards given last night for homes with exceptional
holiday decorations. He mentioned there are lists on the counter in Community Services of the
homes receiving awards.
Mayor McCarthy noted the State Auditor will release its report on the activities of the
Water Replenishment District (WRD) tomorrow.
Mayor McCarthy referred to selection of the final developer, the Ezralow Company, for
the NASA site, stating the presentations by the various developers were outstanding, which made for
a very difficult choice. He mentioned the Ezralow Company's proposal presented quality and quantity
of jobs and incorporated the reuse of existing buildings to maintain the legacy of the site. They also
offered the potential for sound stages and for providing a uniqueness and identity for the City.
OTHER BUSINESS - Staff Members
Mr. Caton mentioned that Chief Irwin, is also retiring at the end of the year, but will continue
to serve the City while another Chief is sought.
Mr. Caton mentioned that Chief Caldwell had done a wonderful job, is appreciated, and will
be missed.
Mr. Caton mentioned that within the last several business days, two members of Congress
visited City Hall. He noted Congressman Horn dropped by to see what he could do for the City,
mentioning the help the Congressman has already given the City by obtaining funding for the Space
Museum and flood control projects.
Mr. Caton pointed out that he has been the sole City Manager for 10 years, unlike the period
from 1980 to 1990 when the City had five City Managers and two interim City Managers. He thanked
the citizens of Downey on behalf of himself and his family for electing such good Council Members
who have kept him employed by the City.
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The meeting recessed at 9:55 p.m. and reconvened at 10:57 p.m. with all Council Members
present.
ADJOURNMENT: 10:57 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned in memory of former Mayor and Council Member William
Greene, and Bill Wenzel, owner of Wenzel's Music Town in Downey,
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J dith E. McDonnell, City Clerk eith McCarthy, Mayor
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