HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 03-14-00 - Regular Meeting MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
MARCH 14, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Proclamation re Mental Retardation awareness Month 1
Initiate General Plan Amendment & Zoning for property at
12310 Woodruff Ave. (known as Skate -O- Rama); Application
for conditional use permit & establish Council subcommittee Approved 5
Bob Goldstein expressed appreciation for resolving storage
issues at the Downey Theatre re set built for Rumors production 5
Amendment to 1999 -2000 Action Plan adding Community
Development Block Grant funding for the Neighborhood
Preservation Fence Replacement Program Approved 6
Ord. re Zone Change #99 -85 for property at 10339 Foster Rd. Introduced 7
Ord. re Zone Change #99 -96 for property at southwest corner
of Firestone Bl. and Patton Rd. Introduced 8
Removal of Items from Consent Calendar 8
Council Minutes: Adj. & Reg. Mtgs. 2/22/00 Approved 8
CC #SS -489, Alley Reconstruction N/o Seventh St. E/o
Smallwood Ave.: Accept improvements and maintenance
responsibility & accept extra work under Change Order #1 Approved 8
Warrants Issued: #6443 — 7047, $2,041,565.89 Approved 8
City Hall carpeting: Approve appropriation from the Civic
Center Fund & auth. the purchase & installation of
carpeting for the 1S & 2n floors of City Hall Approved 8
Unscheduled equipment purchase — DVC -RAM Archival
System: Auth. disbursement of equipment replacement
funds for purchase to replace the existing 4mm Digital Audio
Tape system used to capture radio transmissions & 9 -1 -1 calls Approved 8
Res. #6333, approv. the application for Pedestrian Funds for
FY 1999 -2000 Adopted 8
PAGE 1 OF 3
COUNCIL MINUTES, FEBRUARY 22, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Fire Dept. communication center equip. & technology plan:
Rec. & file the plan & approve the replacement of the computer
assisted dispatch system, records management system & mobile
data terminal base station in the 2000/2001 Fire Dept. budget Rec. & file 9
Downey Transit Center — approval of design plan & auth. to
prepare construction docs. Approved 10
Approval of Downey Museum of Art lease agreement Approved 10
Appropriation to implement Gates Grants at Downey City
Library Approved 11
Res. #6334, waiving the City's rights to a direct subgrant award
through the Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block Grant
Program & auth. funds to be expended by County of L. A. Adopted 12
Ord. #1073, Downey Municipal Code Section 3185 pertaining
to misc. parking regulations Discussed 12
Cn. Winningham req. update on Air Quality Management
District Regulations 1191 through 1196 13
Cn. Lawrence req. Mayoral Transition schedule be placed on
next Council Agenda 13
Cn. Lawrence verified that next Council Agenda will contain
an item re publication vending machines 13
Cn. Perkins noted the City now owns the space shuttle mock -up 13
Cn. McCaughan mentioned the Project Area Committee bylaws
& selection of attorney & was informed issue will be on next
Community Development Commission Agenda 14
Cn. McCaughan commented on funding for the Montebello
Forebay project related to water contamination 14
Cn. McCaughan gave kudos to the 1 t Neighborhood Preservation
brochure 14
Cn. McCaughan ref. to article in Press Telegram re City Council
compensation 14
PAGE 2 OF 3
COUNCIL MINUTES, MARCH 14, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Cn. McCaughan noted report received re cost of lighting Warren
High School ball diamond & req. additional report showing
available fundin g sources 14
Mayor McCarthy mentioned Downey Adult School will celebrate
60 years of educating adults on 3/22/00 14
Mayor omplimented the Downey Symphony Guild &
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Women's Club for their Civil War Encampment event 14
Chief Finch commented on the Police Dept.'s involvement in a task
force, which led to the arrest of a serial rapist/child molester 14
Adj . in memory of Norman Warner, husband of Joan Warner,
Executive Director, Downey Chamber of Commerce & Mark Fife,
husband of Downey Police Dept. employee Bobbie Fife 15
Meeting adjourned to 6:30 p.m., March 28, 2000 15
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MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
MARCH 14, 2000
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:38 p.m., March 14, 2000,
in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Keith McCarthy presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Keith McCarthy Mayor ---
Joyce L. Lawrence Mayor Pro Tem
Robert C. Winningham
Meredith H. Perkins
Gary P. McCaughan, M.D.
ALSO PRESENT: Gerald M. Caton, City Manager
Charles Vose, City Attorney
Judith McDonnell, City Clerk- Treasurer
Lee Powell, Assistant City Manager
John Finch, Police Chief
Darrell George, Director of Community/Economic Development
Ron Irwin, Interim Fire Chief
James Jarrett, Director of Communit y Services
Lowell Williams, Director of Finance
Ron Yoshiki Asst. Director of Community Dev. /City Planner
Linda Haines, Building Official
Vicki Jenkins, City Librarian
Ed Velasco, Manager of Housing
Mark Galvan, Neighborhood Preservation Officer
Anthony La, Principal Engineer
Bob Rowe, Deputy Fire Marshal ---
Mark Sauter, Assistant Chief, Fire Marshal
Steven Yee, Economic Development Coordinator
June Yotsuya, Assistant to the City Manager
Shirley Conte, Executive Secretary
Mayor McCarthy announced that, if no objections from the Council, Agenda Item IX -A,
INITIATE GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING FOR PROPERTY LOCATED
AT 12310 WOODRUFF AVENUE (KNOWN AS SKATE -O- RAMA), will be taken out of
Agenda order and discussed after completion of the Presentation. There were no objections.
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor McCarthy presented to Betty Morris a Proclamation declaring the month of March
as Mental Retardation Awareness Month.
Council Minutes 3/14/00 -1-
Ms. Morris introduced clients of the ARC of Southeast Los Angeles County (ARC) and
advised the ARC now services over 400 individuals with developmental disabilities in 26 different
programs. She urged everyone to participate in the ARC walk -a -thon, Saturday, April 8
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
INITIATE GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONING FOR PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 12310 WOODRUFF AVENUE (KNOWN AS SKATE- O -RAMA)
FROM GENERAL MANUFACTURING TO GENERAL COMMERCIAL
Mr. Vose reviewed the chronology of events starting with the application for a business tax
certificate for two businesses received in September 1999, one for a skating rink and the other for a
video game business, and ending with the letter dated March 1, 2000, from the City Attorney's office
requesting all operations to cease on the property, based on the fact that there were no valid permits
for construction on the site and the use was not permitted within the existing zone for the site.
Mr. Yoshiki explained the City's General Plan guides changes to land use or zoning, and that
the first step is to change the land use to a classification that will accommodate this use of the
property. He mentioned a letter was sent to the property owner, since authorization must be received
from the actual owner.
Stephen Kilstofte, counsel for New Harvest Christian Fellowship and the Oneighty, submitted
documents for the Council's review, stating his client recognized the need for a teen program in
Downey. He mentioned the possibility of an interim use and when this could begin; whether the
program will ultimately be approved; and a time frame for approval of the recommendations listed in
the Agenda Memo. He was informed the process would take between 90 and 120 days.
Mr. Vose explained the City recommends against an interim use and questioned the legality of
whether an interim use is allowable and whether the Council or Planning Commission has jurisdiction
to allow it, due to zoning requirements. He stated he has not researched this issue.
Mr. Kilstofte noted the goal is to go forward with the teen program. He felt all of the
chronology was not mentioned and that some Code Sections referred to did not pertain to this
program, such as coin operated video games or pool tables, which are not involved.
Council Member Perkins referred to Item No. 9, on the third page of the documents submitted,
where it states proper fees, permits, and business licenses were obtained on September 14, 1999, to
conduct arcade games, and noted that a letter was sent to Mr. Salazar on September 28, 1999, stating
the application was denied.
Richard Salazar, Director of the Oneighty Program and Pastor of New Harvest Christian
Fellowship, felt the report by Mr. Lee, Assistant City Attorney, characterizes the program as
potentially dangerous and a threat to life, health and safety. He referred to a letter from the original
property owner, stating that arcade games were in use on the property from 1958 through 1988,
noting he has been advised that he may not be able to operate arcade games. He felt he followed the
steps suggested, paid the fees, and obtained the proper permits. He responded to comments by
Council Member Perkins regarding Item No. 9, stating an entertainment permit was applied for and
the fees were paid. He reviewed the chronology of events leading to the request to cease operation,
Council Minutes 3/14/00 -2-
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stating he was always of the impression that things could be worked out. He felt 90 percent of the
issues raised were present before the Oneighty moved in. He requested the Council allow the facility
to operate during the interim period, stating there are no other teen centers in Downey.
Mayor McCarthy asked if the owner of Skate -O -Rama had any comments.
Hans Oertel, owner of Skate -O -Rama since 1988, stated he operated the facility for 12 years;
received routine fire inspections; operated video machines and televisions; and accommodated church
groups, and skating groups at the facility three nights a week. He did not want to sign the lease
agreement until the City verified the license, stating that when this was received, a seven -year lease —'
was signed. He mentioned the effect the closure of the facility would have on his family's income and
wished the Oneighty good luck. When asked if he was in favor of rezoning the property, his response
was yes.
Nancy Salazar mentioned the monetary investment in games, paint, upholstery, retiling, and
lease, which was made after obtaining all licenses and permits necessary to open the Oneighty. She
referred to being told this was an error by a clerk of the City, stating the parents and teenagers
attending tonight feel violated by the City of Downey.
Daisy Ross, 9255 Elm Vista Drive #12, employee of the City of Los Angeles, stated the
Oneighty program is not only fun but is a place where valuable lessons are being taught. It provides
an outlet that is safe, free, well supervised and can only serve to benefit the community as a whole.
Timothy Palacio, Norwalk, noted the church is made up of hard working people who have
invested in youth. He mentioned his troubled background, stating this is what happens when young
people do not have things to do. He urged the Council to consider their actions.
Ramona Lopez, Maywood, volunteer at the Oneighty and employee at the Los Angeles County
University of Southern California Medical Center, urged the Council not to close the facility, as young
people need a place to go where they can mingle with no barriers and have good clean fun.
Anthony Rojas, Pomona, stated the Oneighty is a place where youth can enjoy life and work
together and not b exposed to drugs, sex and alcohol. Also there are inspirational workers who care
about youth.
Eleanor Gassas, Norwalk, urged the City to reconsider this issue, noting the Oneighty is a
place she feels comfortable sending her son because it is well - supervised good clean fun.
Debbie Kingsley, Downey, noted so many children have turned to violence and crime and the
concept of the Oneighty has been living within the minds of many for years and became a reality. The
activities appeal to youth and inspire positive social development. They have an opportunity to be
encouraged and to evaluate the direction of their lives. She urged the Council to reopen the Oneighty.
Monica Purchase, La Mirada, volunteer at the Oneighty, as well as Los Padrinos juvenile
facility and other youth camps, stated kids will get into trouble if the Oneighty is closed. She urged
the Council to reopen the facility.
Council Minutes 3/14/00 -3-
Michael O' Garrity, 9541 Cecilia Street, Downey, expressed concern with the red tape involved
to keep this facility open for the teenagers, noting there are porno magazines for sale on the City's
streets and felt these businesses do not have to go through red tape.
John Soria, Community Service Officer for Los Angeles County Sheriff s Department,
mentioned seeing teenagers and adults misdirected by the streets every day. He now interacts with
teenagers from surrounding communities and has seen something dynamic happening. He urged the
Council to give the Oneighty a chance.
Nicholas Anthony Nunez, Norwalk, mentioned past affiliation with gang members and noting
when he saw the Oneighty outreach truck go by, he is now attending the Oneighty and church. He
urged the Council to reopen Oneighty, which he has benefitted from.
Anthony Santistephan, worker at the Oneighty, stated this is an opportunity to be part of the
involved with the youth and be a positive influence. Every Saturday the facility is not open is an
opportunity for the youth to make the wrong choice. He urged the Council to make the right choice
and keep the Oneighty open.
Council Member Lawrence thanked everyone for sharing their comments on the Oneighty.
She referred to mistaken issuance of a business tax license, which has nothing to do with required
permits and inspections that have not been obtained yet. She disputed some of the statements made in
the documents submitted and explained the reason for permits is to make sure health and safety issues
are addressed. By obtaining a permit, an inspection is performed by a professional. She referred to
problems disclosed during inspection, such as electrical issues, construction not to Code, problems
with exits, blocked pathways, and flammable materials, stating the organization did not do everything
it was supposed to do or this issue would not be before the Council. This Agenda item is the first step
toward insuring this youth ministry stays in Downey.
Council Member Winningham echoed the comment's of Council Member Lawrence, noting his
concerns relate to public safety issues, which are the Council's responsibility. If there are safety
violations, they must be fixed. The Council supports the concept of the Oneighty but cannot break the
rules for this organization. He questioned whether the business could still operate as a skating rink in
the interim, with the new owner and lessee working to correct the violations.
Council Member Perkins referred to his earlier comments, noting proper permits were not
obtained, they were denied. He stated this is not a case of whether the Council wants this youth
organization in the City but is an issue of health and safety, noting his decision will be based upon
those factors. He noted the Council must abide by the City's rules.
Council Member McCaughan explained staff's recommendation initiates a process to allow this
group to remain in the City and everyone must work together. There is enough evidence showing a
question exists about the building which has to be cleared up before proper permits can be issued. He
encouraged the youth program to continue.
Council Minutes 3/14/00 -
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Mayor McCarthy mentioned visiting the site in October and that he has spoken with
Mr. Yoshiki regarding issues to be resolved. He suggested establishing a Council subcommittee to
make sure issues are worked through quickly and requested the City Manager to contact Pastor
Salazar tomorrow to begin the process. He noted his son has attended the program and he felt it was
a great operation. He stated, as City leaders, it is the Council's job to look out for the long term and
inspections have disclosed issues that must be addressed. He and Council Member Winningham
volunteered to be part of the Council subcommittee.
It was moved by Mayor McCarthy, seconded by Council Member Perkins, and unanimously
carried to initiate a proposed amendment to the City's General Plan for certain property located
at 12310 Woodruff Avenue, changing the land use designation from General Manufacturing to
General Commercial; file an application with the General Plan Amendment for rezoning the
property from M -1 (Light Manufacturing) to C -2 (General Commercial); file an application for
a Conditional Use Permit for consideration of certain commercial activities that require a
Conditional Use Permit in the C -2 zone; and establish a Council Subcommittee consisting of
Mayor McCarthy and Council Member Winningham.
The meeting recessed at 9:20 p.m. and reconvened at 9:30 p. m. with all Council Members
present.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Bob Goldstein, 11000 Woodruff Avenue, member of the Downey Kiwanis Club, thanked the
Mayor, Council and Downey Civic Theatre staff for resolving storage issues relating to the set built
for the Rumors Production and mentioned St. Matthias School has utilized pieces from the stored set.
He also commended the Theatre for hiring Noreen Kimura, stating without her expertise and efforts
the set could not have been made.
HEARINGS
Mayor McCarthy opened the public hearing on AN AMENDMENT TO THE 1999 - 2000
ACTION PLAN ADDING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG)
FUNDING FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION FENCE REPLACEMENT
PROGRAM.
Ms. McDonnell affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council
Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member Winningham, and so ordered to receive and file.
Mr. Velasco mentioned the Neighborhood Preservation Fence Replacement Program was
approved by the Council on January 25, 2000, as part of the neighborhood preservation effort. The
Council also approved the recommendation of a $25,000 allocation from the CDBG Fund. He noted
the Federal Block Grant Program requires the City conduct a public hearing on any activity not
included in the initial application for 1999 -2000 CDBG funds, advising the fence program complies
with the CDBG program.
Council Minutes 3/14/00 -5-
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Mayor McCarthy inquired as to whether this was additional funding or would reduce the City's
present funds and was informed it was unused funds from the previous fiscal year. He also asked if
there were certain geographic boundaries for the fence program and was informed the boundaries are
Golden Avenue to the north, Century Boulevard to the south, Downey Avenue to the west and Barlin
Avenue to the east.
There was no correspondence received on this matter.
There being no one to speak regarding the Amendment to the 1999 -2000 Action Plan, it was
moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member Winningham, and so ordered to
close the hearing.
It was moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member Winningham, and
unanimously carried to approve an amendment to the 1999 -2000 Action Plan, which adds the
Neighborhood Preservation Fence Replacement Program to the Action Plan and $25,000 in
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding.
Mayor McCarthy opened the pubic hearing on ZONE CHANGE NO. 99 FOR
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 10339 FOSTER ROAD.
Ms. McDonnell affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council
Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member Winningham, and so ordered to receive and file.
Mr. Yoshiki narrated a visual program depicting the location of the property, which is between
the I -105 Freeway and Foster Road in the Rio San Gabriel River Channel within the Southern
California Edison's right -of -way. The City's General Plan designates these areas as open space and
the rezoning is basically a cleanup to rezone the property to Open Space- Public Utility. The City also
received an application for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to establish a cellular antennae unit on one
of the existing Southern California Edison tower units, and the rezoning would also facilitate this
application.
There was no correspondence received on this matter.
Mayor McCarthy asked if there was anyone present who wished to speak in favor of Zone
Change No. 9945.
Jim Marquez, SBA, Inc., consultants to Sprint, 3151 Airway Avenue, Suite L120, Costa Mesa,
stated the comments in the staff report are satisfactory to their needs.
There being no one else to speak in favor or in opposition to Zone Change No. 99 -85, it was
moved by Council Member Winningham, seconded by Council Member Lawrence, and so ordered to
close the hearing.
Council Minutes 3/14/00 -6-
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ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING THE CITY'S OFFICIAL ZONING MAP TO REZONE
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 10339 FOSTER ROAD (APN 6280 -005 -800) FROM
R1 (SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) TO OS -PU (OPEN SPACE- PUBLIC
UTII.,ITY) AND ADOPTING THE NEGATIVE DECLARATION
The Ordinance 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 ---
introduce.
Mayor McCarthy opened the pubic hearing on ZONE CHANGE NO. 99 FOR
PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF FIRESTONE
BOULEVARD AND PATTON ROAD.
Ms. McDonnell affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council
Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member Winningham, and so ordered to receive and
file.
Mr. Yoshiki narrated a visual program to illustrate the rezoning of this property at the
southwest corner of Patton Road and Firestone Boulevard. He noted the City's General Plan
designates this property as General Commercial, while the zoning map shows a split zone, with
C3 (Central Business District) in the front and M1 (Light Manufacturing) in the back. He
explained this is a cleanup item to bring the zoning into consistency with the General Plan.
There was no correspondence received on this matter.
Mayor McCarthy asked if there was anyone present who wished to speak in favor of Zone
Change No. 99 -96.
Mark Esses, 11835 West Olympic Boulevard, Suite 1050, Los Angeles, thanked the
Council for giving his organization the opportunity to work with the City on this project.
There being no one else to speak in favor or in opposition to Zone Change No. 99 -96, it
was moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member Winningham, and so
ordered to close the hearing.
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING THE CITY'S COMPREHENSIVE ZONING MAP, CHANGING
THE ZONE FOR PROPERTIES ON THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF
FIRESTONE BOULEVARD AND PATTON ROAD FROM C3 (CENTRAL
BUSINESS DISTRICT) AND M1 (LIGHT MANUFACTURING) TO C2
(GENERAL COMMERCIAL) (ASSESSOR PARCEL NOS. 6255- 004 -008, 011,
900 AND 901)
Council Minutes 3/14/00 -7-
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The Ordinance 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
introduce.
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS FOR REMOVAL
Agenda Item VI - - JUVENILE ACCOUNTABILITY INCENTIVE BLOCK GRANT,
was removed at the request of David Bowers, 10620 Dolan Avenue.
Agenda Items V1 APPROVAL OF DOWNEY MUSEUM OF ART LEASE
AGREEMENT, and VI - - APPROPRIATION TO IMPLEMENT GATES GRANTS AT THE
DOWNEY CITY LIBRARY, were removed at the request of Council Member McCaughan.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Council Member Lawrence, 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: ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETINGS, FEBRUARY 22,
2000: Approve.
CASH CONTRACT NO. S.S. 489 – ALLEY RECONSTRUCTION – NORTH OF
SEVENTH STREET, EAST OF SMALLWOOD AVENUE (Account No. 36- 16489):
Accept the improvements and the maintenance responsibility for the improvements constructed
in the alley and approve extra work under Change Order No. 1, totaling $425,000: Approve.
WARRANTS ISSUED: NO. 6443 – 7047, $2,041,565.89: Approve.
CITY HALL CARPETING: Approve the appropriation from the Civic Center Fund, and
— authorize the spending of $120,000 for the purchase and installation of carpeting for the first
and second floors of City Hall: Approve.
UNSCHEDULED EQUIPMENT PURCHASE – DVD - RAM ARCHIVAL SYSTEM:
Authorize the disbursement of equipment replacement funds in the amount of $5,347 for the
purchase of a DVD -RAM archival system to replace the existing 4mm Digital Audio Tape
(DAT) tape storage system used to capture radio transmissions and 9 -1 -1 telephone calls:
Approve.
RESOLUTION NO. 6333 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPLICATION FOR PEDESTRIAN FUNDS FOR FISCAL YEAR
1999 -2000 AUTHORIZED UNDER TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT ACT
ARTICLE III (S.B. 821)
ORDINANCES: None
Council Minutes 3/14/00 -8-
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RESOLUTIONS: None
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS (Cont.)
FIRE DEPARTMENT COMMUNICATION CENTER EQUIPMENT AND
TECHNOLOGY PLAN
Chief Irwin stated in June 1999 an equipment and technology plan for the Area E Joint Powers
Communication Center (JPCC) was presented to Council for review. The plan made several
recommendations for improvements and upgrades, with a number of recommendations already
implemented and others currently in process.
Assistant Chief Sauter presented a video presentation of the equipment technology plan and
related budget items, noting the communication center is located at Fire Station No. 1; was formed in
1975; handles nearly 30,000 requests for service (9 -1 -1 calls); and processes over 106,000 phone calls
a year. The operations are funded by a cost formula comprised of population as well as assessed
valuation and is spread out over the five member cities. He explained the equipment and technology
related to a 944 call from start to finish and reviewed the functions of the JPCC phone, dispatch,
radio, mobile data terminal, and records management systems. He mentioned components of the
system that have been implemented and those underway and reviewed recommendations for the next
year, such as replacement of the computer assisted dispatch system, mobile data terminal base station
and improvement of the records management system. He explained the abilities of the recommended
equipment, which is windows NT based, with fully supported software and standard hardware. The
projected cost is $435,000, with Downey's portion being $108,750. The cities of Santa Fe Springs
and Compton have allocated monies for their portion of the cost. He responded to comments from the
Council, reviewing improvements scheduled to Station No. 1; the budgeting process for the project;
acknowledged he would look into the possibility of leasing some of the equipment; and advised the
new CAD system can incorporate the GIS information.
It was moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member Winningham, and
unanimously carried to receive and file the Equipment and Technology Plan developed by ---
members of the Fire Department and approve the replacement of the Computer Assisted
Dispatch System, the Records Management System and the Mobile Data Terminal Base Station
in the 2000/2001 Fire Department budget. The cost of the replacement equipment is estimated
to be $435,000.
DOWNEY TRANSIT CENTER -- APPROVAL OF DESIGN PLAN AND
AUTHORIZATION TO PREPARE CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
Mr. Jarrett explained that members of the City Council Downtown Sub - Committee and star
have been meeting with Transit Architects John Wulfmeyer and Ken Stein to develop a design plan for
the transit center to be located at Downey Avenue and Nance Street. He reviewed the resulting
design plan, noting major components include a separated bus traffic lane, sheltered passenger waiting
areas, transit building, which includes a dispatch training/office space and public restroom, and site
landscape and hardscape improvements.
Council Minutes 3/14/00 -9-
John Wulfineyer, transit architect, 3 920 Stansbury, Sherman Oaks, presented a visual program
of the design schematic, site plan, floor plan, bus entrance, and landscaping, noting the purpose of the
facility is to provide bus ridership the means of arriving at the site, transferring to another bus and then
leaving the site. The facility will have seven bus stations large enough to accommodate 40 foot
coaches. He felt the design of the facility will help take Downey into the 21s Century and, since it is
the site of the old railroad depot, it was felt homage should be given to the historical aspect. He
pointed out that one percent of the budget was designated for artwork, pointing to a wall specifically
designed to accommodate artwork. He stated artists are currently being sought to assemble ideas.
Mayor McCarthy acknowledged local artist Lillian Ashton- Brooks in the audience, suggesting
the architect contact her for assistance with the art wall. He also suggested identifying the bus
entrance to alert cars not to use that entrance and a possible drop -off point on Nance Street. It was
pointed out there is a dropoff point incorporated in the plan for Nance Street.
Mr. Wulfmeyer pointed out that La Reina Avenue will have to be rewidened to its original
width to maintain access to current businesses.
Mayor McCarthy inquired about the walkway and was informed it is stained concrete.
Council Member Lawrence noted the trees along La Reina Avenue are in bloom and wanted to
make sure they are saved for reuse when the street is widened.
It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Perkins, and
unanimously carried to approve the Design Plan and authorize the preparation of Construction
Documents for the Downey Transit Center.
Prior to the vote, David Bowers, 10620 Dolan Avenue, inquired about access to the restrooms
and was informed they can be easily accessed through the dispatch building and exceed normal size
requirements.
OTHER BUSINESS - Consent Calendar - Items removed by Council Approval
APPROVAL OF DOWNEY MUSEUM OF ART LEASE AGREEMENT
Council Member McCaughan requested clarification that the City provides for the Museum's
phone bill and utilities and the museum provides the City with hold - harmless liability insurance and
was informed the City does not pay for the operation of the facility (the exhibits) but does pay for
utilities, basic cleaning, and basic phone bill, with the museum providing a basic liability policy. He
then asked if this system has been in place in the past and the response was yes.
It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Perkins, and
unanimously carried to approve a lease agreement with the Downey Museum of Art, Inc. for use
of the "museum building" at Furman Park, under terms set forth in the agreement.
Council Minutes 3/14/00 -10-
Prior to the vote, Lillian Ashton- Brooks, representing the Downey Museum of Art, Inc.,
explained gas is used for heating the facility; the air - conditioning does not always work in all rooms;
and imposed upon the City to inspect the wiring and roof, which she stated leaks occasionally. She
also pointed out the Museum does not have a handicapped toilet facility. She noted the Museum is
attempting to draw the schools into the facility and is beginning to have very successful programs for
the public. She has talked to Senator Betty Karnette regarding the possibility of a new Museum and
was informed if plans were drawn up, the Senator would pursue the project.
Mayor McCarthy encouraged the Museum to open during Kidsday again this year, which he
felt provided great exposure.
APPROPRIATION TO IMPLEMENT GATES GRANTS AT THE DOWNEY CITY
LIBRARY
Council Member McCaughan referred to ongoing Library costs totaling $30,000, noting the
$25,000 designated for a part -time employee and inquired about the duties of this employee.
Mr. Jarrett explained the position would provide general supervision to assist the public, as
well as computer training.
It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member Winningham, and
unanimously carried to appropriate $15,600 to implement the Gates Grants for public access
computing at the Downey City Library and approve the reallocation of $13,824 in the current
library budget to support the grant implementation in Fiscal Year 1999/2000.
Prior to the vote, Mayor McCarthy complimented the Library staff for working hard to obtain
the Gates Grant and hoped it would allow access to the computer from all schools.
Council Member McCaughan requested additional information regarding $25,000 for part -time
personnel and was advised the information would be provided.
Mr. Jarrett indicated a commitment is needed tonight to process the application by Friday to
receive the equipment. The expenditures for next year will be part of the upcoming budget
consideration and monies are not being appropriated tonight. The staff report only brings to the
Council's attention the fact that Library staff believe there is a staffing issue that should be addressed
prior to implementing this program.
JUVENILE ACCOUNTABILITY INCENTIVE BLOCK GRANT (JAIBG)
David Bowers, 10620 Dolan Avenue, inquired if the City was receiving something in return for
waiving its rights to a direct subgrant award.
Chief Finch explained the monies fund a project through the Los Angeles County District
Attorney's office that both the Downe y Department De artment Juvenile Bureau and the Downey Unified
School District benefit from, as it concentrates on employee costs that specifically relate to juvenile
truancy.
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Mr. Caton noted the money stays within Downey but is allocated through the District
Attorney's office.
RESOLUTION NO. 6334
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
WAIVING THE CITY'S RIGHTS TO A DIRECT SUBGRANT AWARD
MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE JUVENILE ACCOUNTABILITY
INCENTIVE BLOCK GRANT (JAIBG) PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZING
THE FUNDS TO BE EXPENDED BY THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Winningham,
seconded by Council Member McCaughan, and unanimously carried to waive further reading and
adopt.
OTHER BUSINESS - Council Members
ORDINANCE NO. 1073, DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 3185
PERTAINING TO MISCELLANEOUS PARKING REGULATIONS
Council Member Winningham discussed the Ordinance adopted by Council on September 28,
1999, regarding the parking of commercial vehicles in residential areas, mentioning statistics on
violations issued since the Ordinance went into effect on January ra He stated he was contacted by a
member of the community who was cited, which triggered him to conduct research on his own. He
noted the City reduced the weight limit for commercial vehicles from 10,000 to 6,000 pounds and set
a height and width limit. He narrated a visual program of vehicles in violation, which were viewed
while driving through residential areas. His preference was not to see these vehicles in residential
areas but did not want to stifle an independent businessman, requesting a consensus of the Council.
He advised that violations have dropped during the second month, which denotes compliance.
Council Member Lawrence stated her interest was primarily in the big boxy vehicles, which
block resident's vision as they tried to back out. She stated she was more tolerant of the lower
commercial trucks.
Council Member Perkins felt the weight may need revisiting and mentioned receiving a call
from one of his constituents, who was running a business from home and ended up moving the vehicle
to another location that was legal.
Chief Finch noted the prior Ordinance had a 10,000 pound gross vehicle weight limit, which
was changed to an unladen 6,000 pound weight, that constitutes much less than a 4,000 pound
difference. He noted the Ordinance went through approximately 22 drafts before the final copy
version was adopted.
Council Member Lawrence stated she felt two and a half months of enforcement does not
provide enough data and that more information is needed.
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Council Member McCaughan felt the City's commercial vehicle code is fairly liberal compared
to other cities and more time is needed for data. He expressed concern about tying this Ordinance to a
home -based business. He recalled a list of businesses that could be considered home -based that did
not generate undue traffic or other activities that disturb the neighborhood. He referred to a situation
in a residential area on La Reina Avenue where neighbors complained for two years about a home that
eventually became a construction storage yard. He suggested revisiting this matter after it has been in
force for 12 months.
Steve Bell, 9216 Gallatin Road, stated his residence is also his place of business and expressed
concern because he was cited under this Ordinance. He is a service company as well as a construction
company and is concerned about facilitating Stonewood Shopping Center and people in Downey and
Bellflower. He referred to the additional steps he must take to park the truck elsewhere, which has
brought complaints from customers questioning why it took him so long to arrive.
Mayor McCarthy also suggested giving the Ordinance more time to see the results.
David Bowers, 10620 Dolan Avenue, echoed the comments of Mr. Bell, who noted his vehicle
was parked on private property, and felt this treads heavily on people's ability to earn income. He
suggested looking into the ability to park these vehicles on their own private property.
Council Member Winningham mentioned situations where these vehicles could be parked in
backyards out of public view, which is also a violation. He mentioned concern with home -based
businesses and did not want to see large vehicles parked in front of homes.
Council Member McCaughan mentioned receiving several complaints about vehicles on
Brookshire Avenue that are active at night exchanging clothing between each vehicle and the garage is
used as a warehouse. He felt this was inappropriate and gives that person an advantage over the
business with a shop or warehouse.
Mayor McCarthy requested a monthly summary of violations and suggested revisiting this
issue in six months.
Council Member Winningham mentioned a query on the City Council Assignment List
regarding a report on Air Quality Management District Regulation 1190, which was taken off
because the regulation was dropped. He noted it was replaced with Regulations 1191 through 1196
and requested an update on those and specifically Regulation 1191 for consideration of support.
Council Member Lawrence asked that the Mayoral Transition schedule be placed under her
name on the next Council Meeting Agenda.
Council Member Lawrence verified that the next Council Agenda will contain an item relating
to publication vending machines.
Council Member Perkins noted a check listed on the warrants register was made out to the
Department of General Services, asking if the City now owns the shuttle mock -up and the response
was yes.
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11)(1 :`;
Council Member McCaughan noted the Project Area Committee (PAC) bylaws and selection
of attorney have become a lengthy process and requested a report regarding the legal standing of the
PAC and whether the Council has the right to disband the PAC and reorganize it. He was informed it
will be on the next Commission Agenda.
Council Member McCaughan commented on funding for the Montebello Forebay project,
which relates to water contamination that is occurring at the Whittier Narrows Dam and involves
the drinking water in the San Gabriel Valley. He advised he is chairman of the Southeast Water
Coalition and they are attempting to obtain $10 million in funding to start up the well projects to pump
out and treat the water.
Council Member McCaughan gave kudos to the first Neighborhood Preservation brochure
and offered his support and encouragement for its distribution. He noted it includes his top ten of
what needs to be enforced.
Council Member McCaughan referred to an article in the Press Telegram regarding City
Council pay and hoped staff would come back with a comparison of other cities. He felt that raising
the stipend would make it easier for a person with a full time job to serve on the Council.
Council Member McCaughan noted he received a report on the $100,000 cost of lighting the
Warren High School ball diamond and requested another report that would show available funding
sources. He felt both high schools should have good facilities and requested the Council's support.
Mayor McCarthy mentioned the Downey Adult School will celebrate 60 years of educating
adults on March 22n
Mayor McCarthy noted the Downey Symphony Guild and Women's Club put on a wonderful
event, the Civil War Encampment, at the Women's Club, and complimented these two
organizations.
OTHER BUSINESS - Staff Members
Chief Finch commented on the Police Department's involvement in a task force the last few
weeks, mentioning four incidents that occurred in surrounding cities and one incident yesterday in
Downey, which led to the arrest of a serial rapist/child molester. He mentioned pride in the way the
officers and task force responded, noting Sheriff Baca gave the Downey Police Department much of
the credit for the eventual arrest during his press conference today.
The meeting recessed at 11:35 p.m. and reconvened at 11:55 p.m. with all Council Members
present.
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ADJOURNMENT: 1 1 :5:55 p . m.
The meeting was adjourned in memory of Norman Warner, husband of Joan Warner,
Executive Director, Downey Chamber of Commerce; and Mark Fife, husband of Downey Police
Department employee Bobbie Fife, to 6:30 p.m., March 28, 2000, in the Council Chamber of
Downey City Hall.
' ' 1 A Kf
s � Judith E. McDonnell, City Clerk Keith McCarthy, Mayor f
y y
H: \CCLERK\SCONTE \MINUTES\ccmn0314
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