HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 04-11-00 - Regular Meeting MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APRIL 11, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
SUBJECT
ACTION PAGE NO.
Proclamation declaring 1 mation declarin Ap ril 2000 as Arbor Day 1
Proclamation declaring April 2000 as Keep Downey Beautiful
Month 1
Proclamation declarin g Ap ril 9 -15, as National Library Week 2
Council Member Lawrence recognized former Mayor & Council
Member Robert Cormack 2
Removal of Items from Consent Calendar 2
Council Minutes: Adj. & Reg. Mtgs. 3/28/00 Approved 2
� g
Cash Contract #S. S. 494, Citywide Resurfacing: Award a unit
price contract to All American Asphalt Approved 2
Cash Contract #619, Third St. Water Main Replacement Proj . :
Approve plans & & grant authority to advertise for bids Approved 2
pp p
Cash Contract #619, Lakewood Bl. Water Transmission Main
improvements: Award contract to Engineered Plumbing, Inc. Approved 2
Warrants Issued: 7467 — 7929, $1,151,990.76 Approved 2
Agreement for construction inspection services, Lakewood Bi.
water transmission main improvements from the 1-5 Freeway to
Rosecrans Av.: Award a contract to Construction Management
Inspection & Assoc. Approved 2
Res. #6339, approv. the application of grant funds for the
Downe y Community Aquatic uatic Center Adopted 3
q
Res. #6340, approv. the appoint. of Mark Vasquez, Downey
City Hospital ital Commission, Dist. 1 Adopted 3
Res. #6341, approv. the appoint. of Gloria Reed, Retail/ -
Commercial Business Person, Design Review Board (4 yr.) Adopted 3
PAGE 1 OF 6
COUNCIL MINUTES, APRIL 11, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Res. #6342, approv. the appoint. of Raul Fernandez,
Registered Civil Eng., Design Review Board (4 yr.) Adopted 3
Res. #6343, approv. the appoint. of Alex Baca, Licensed
General Contractor, Design Review Board (4 yr.) Adopted 3
Res. #6344, approv. the appoint. of Dale Self, Alternate
Licensed General Contractor, Design Review Board (4 yr.) Adopted 3
Res. #6345, approv. the appoint. of Frank Prieto, Citizen -
At- Large, Design Review Board (2 yr.) Adopted 3
Res. #6346, approv. the appoint. of Graham Stanley,
Registered Landscape Architect, Design Review Board (2 yr.) Adopted 4
Res. #6347, approv. the appoint. of Gilbert Flores, Alternate
Registered Landscape Architect, Design Review Board (2 yr.) Adopted 4
Res. #6348, ordering the Engineer to prepare & file a
report on assessments within Lighting/Landscaping
Dist. A.D. 121 for FY 2000 -2001 Adopted 4
Res. #6349, approv. the Engineer's report for assessments
within Lighting/Landscaping Dist. A.D. 121, FY 2000 -2001 Adopted 4
Res. #6350, declaring its intention to levy & collect lighting &
landscaping assessments within Lighting/Landscaping Dist.
A.D. 121, FY 2000 -2001 Adopted 4
Res. #6351, supporting the Central Basin Municipal Water
District's Central Basin Water Quality Protection Project Adopted 4
Ord. amending Sects. 6599.2 & 6599.5 of the Downey
Municipal Code & adding Sect. 6599.12 re publication Introduced,
vending machines (newspaper racks) as amended 6
Downtown Facade Improvement Program: Auth. the
City Manager to approve projects & execute agreements Approved 7
PAGE 2 OF 6
COUNCIL MINUTES, APRIL 11, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Lennie Whittington re increased traffic congestion on
Patton Rd. & Firestone B1. when Downey High School
students leave the parking lot; graffiti occurring daily on
the National 0 -Ring & Coca -Cola Bldgs. & at the Days
Inn Hotel; and difficulty for semi- trucks turning at
Lakewood Bl. & Firestone Bl. 7
Creasie Adams introduced herself as External Affairs Dir.
for Pac Bell 7
John McDonald requested the Council proclaim May as
Motorcycle Awareness and You month 7
Lucy Lynn Wilson mentioned the need for a new computer
lab at Maude Price Elementary School & project undertaken
by students to raise money 7
I -710 Corridor Major Investment Study: Auth. the Mayor to
sign an agreement with the Gateway Cities Council of
Governments & appropriate Gas Tax Funds Approved 8
Cash Contract #S. S. 509 — Citywide Slurry Seal: Approv.
plans & specs. & grant authority to advertise for bids Approved 8
Outdoor storage in Rancho Business Park Ref. to Planning
Commission 10
Cn. Perkins re attending the Gangs Out of Downey luncheon 10
Cn. Perkins re participating in the ARC Walk 10
Cn. Perkins re attending a League of California Cities meeting
in the City of Commerce 10
Cn. Perkins re representing the City on the Independent
Cities Risk Management Authority & thanked Director of
Finance, Lowell Williams for also representing the City &
doing a fine job 10
PAGE 3 OF 6
COUNCIL MINUTES, APRIL 11, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Cn. McCaughan re an independent girls' volleyball team
called "Specifit" chosen to attend the Junior Olympics &
represent Downey 10
Cn. McCaughan mentioned items on his budget wish list:
Improvements in the right -of -way on Paramount Bl.;
improvements on the right -of -way on Lakewood Bl.; &
consideration of lighting baseball field at Warren High School 10
Cn. McCaughan re complaints of a carport in his district
where a garage was converted to living space Ref. to star 10
Cn. McCaughan re need to renew redevelopment areas
that will be expiring soon 11
Cn. McCaughan suggested moving forward with development
of Downtown area 11
Cn. McCaughan mentioned Rio Hondo School PTA
supports the installation of a crosswalk near the school at
Rives Av. & Muller St. Ref. to staff 11
Cn. McCaughan re unsightly property on west side of
Paramount B1. & felt it should be declared a public nuisance
& abated 11
Cn. McCaughan re to Minutes of the Recreation &
Community Services Comm. re refurbishing of the Golf
Course Clubhouse & suggested moving forward 11
Cn. McCaughan mentioned teen centers in the City of Long
Beach & suggested discussing a teen center concept in with
the Downey Unified School District & possibly form a teen
subcommittee 11
Cn. McCaughan re complaints about the Mazda dealership
in town being painted purple & yellow 11
Cn. McCaughan mentioned seeing flier on "Splatter House 5"
& requested information on the activities Ref. to staff 11
PAGE 4OF6
COUNCIL MINUTES, APRIL 11, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Cn. Lawrence thanked the Downey Chamber of Commerce
& Red Cross for honoring City employees 11
Cn. Lawrence mentioned complaints from beach areas re
trash washing down the riverbeds 11
Cn. Lawrence commented on the new memorial being
constructed at the Downey Cemetery 11
Cn. Winningham requested comments raised by
Mr. Whittington placed on the City - School Meeting Agenda 11
Cn. Winningham requested a Proclamation declaring May as
Motorcycle Awareness & You Month on the next Agenda 12
Cn. Winningham commented on the Downey Police
Officer injured in a traffic accident 12
Cn. Winningham re the Downey Firefighter injured in
an off -road accident 12
Cn. Winningham requested the Maude Price Elementary
School card submitted re their computer lab be displayed
at City Hall 12
Cn. Winningham asked that the meeting be adjourned in
memory of Kathleen Derry & Donald Burns 12
Mayor McCarthy drew attention to the southern end of
Paramount Bl. & hopes it is included in the citywide street
surfacing contract approved this evening 12
Mayor McCarthy mentioned attending opening day of
baseball for the Downey Junior Athletic Assoc. (DJAA) 12
Mayor McCarthy re earlier comments re the need for a
computer lab at Maude Price Elementary School & hoped
this request will also be forwarded to the Downey Unified
School District Meetings 12
Mayor McCarthy re the Oneighty facility 12
PAGE 5 OF 6
COUNCIL MINUTES, APRIL 11, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Mayor McCarthy commended the graffiti removal crew
for response to calls & noted crew members instrumental
in the recent arrest of a tagger 12
Mayor McCarthy mentioned a letter of commendation from
the L. A. Inter - Agency Metropolitan Police Apprehension
Crime Force re Detective Robert Del Rio re drug bust 12
Mayor McCarthy re Construction Awareness Meeting to
be held on 4/13/00 at Old River Elementary School by Army
Corps of Engineers re flood control construction 13
Mr. Caton thanked the public & reporters for staying throughout
the meeting 13
Mr. Caton mentioned receiving letters commending City
employees 13
Mr. Caton commended the members of the Kiwanis Club
present & mentioned staff members who serve in various
community service clubs 13
Mr. Caton updated the Council on the Water Replenishment
District issue 13
Mr. Caton commented on the LACDA flood control project 13
Mr. Caton commented on the status of the I -5 Freeway
widening project 13
Mr. Caton commented on the new Senior Citizen housing
project on Third St. 13
Adj. in memory of Donald Burns, father of Pastor Scott
Burns of the Trinity Baptist Church & Kathleen Derry,
mother of longtime Downey resident Jim Derry 13
Meeting adjourned to 6:30 p.m., April 25, 2000 13
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PAGE 6 OF 6
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APRIL 11, 2000
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:43 p.m., April 11, 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
Desi Alvarez, Director of Public Works
John Finch, Police Chief
Darrell George, Director of Community/Economic Development
Ron Irwin, Interim Fire Chief
James Jarrett, Director of Community Services
Lowell Williams, Director of Finance
Ron Yoshiki, Asst. Director of Community Dev. /City Planner
Shirley Bennett, Deputy Director of Public Works
Vicki Jenkins, City Librarian
Christina Garcia, Special Projects Coordinator
Steven Yee, Economic Development Coordinator
June Yotsuya, Assistant to the City Manager
Shirley Conte, Executive Secretary
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor McCarthy presented to Charlotte Weiting, Member of the Daughters of the American
Revolution (DAR), a Proclamation declaring the month of April 2000 as Arbor Day and
introduced DAR members, Dorothy Jones, Mary Virginia Nevin, Patricia Welter, Ralph Weiting, and
Ann Sandstrom. He also introduced Shirley Bennett, Deputy Director of Public Works Physical
Services Division, noting this City Division works with volunteers to plant trees throughout the City.
Mayor McCarthy presented to Carol Rowland, Keep Downey Beautiful (KDB) Program
Coordinator, a Proclamation declaring the month of April 2000 as Keep Downey Beautiful
Month. He introduced KDB Chairperson Joan Frey, and member Doris Patterson.
Ms. Rowland noted Saturday, April 15, has been set aside for a citywide cleanup of the
railroad tracks and urged anyone interested in volunteering to contact her.
Council Minutes 4/11/00 -1-
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Mayor McCarthy presented to Downey Kiwin Club Members, Robbin Choi, Laurie Kim,
Karen Choi, Juh Choi, and Jennie Kyu, a Proclamation declaring the week of April 9 - 15, 2000, as
National Library Week. He mentioned various events conducted at the Library during the past week
and acknowledged City Librarian Vicki Jenkins and Library Advisory Board Members present in the
audience.
Council Member Lawrence recognized former Mayor and Council Member Robert
Cormack who was present in the audience.
HEARINGS: None
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS FOR REMOVAL
Agenda Item VI - - CASH CONTRACT NO. S.S. 509, CITYWIDE SLURRY SEAL,
was removed at the request of Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member Perkins, 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, MARCH 28,
2000: Approve.
CASH CONTRACT NO. S.S. 494, CITYWIDE RESURFACING (ACCOUNT NOS. 26-
16494, 26 - 16491 AND 54 16493): Award a unit price contract, totaling $799,574.11 to All
American Asphalt for resurfacing City streets under Cash Contract No. S.S. 494: Approve.
CASH CONTRACT NO. 619, THIRD STREET WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT
PROJECT FROM MYRTLE STREET TO LA REINA AVENUE (ACCOUNT NO. 83-
20533): Approve Plans and Specifications and grant authority to advertise for bids: Approve.
CASH CONTRACT NO. 618, LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD WATER TRANSMISSION
MAIN IMPROVEMENTS FROM THE I -5 FREEWAY TO ROSECRANS AVENUE
(ACCOUNT NO. 51 Award a lump sum contract to Engineered Plumbing, Inc.
totaling $2,772,263.00 for the Lakewood Boulevard Water Transmission Main Project under
Cash Contract No. 618: Approve.
WARRANTS ISSUED: NO. 7467 — 7929, $1,151,990.76: Approve.
AGREEMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION INSPECTION SERVICES LAKEWOOD
BOULEVARD WATER TRANSMISSION MAIN IMPROVEMENTS FROM THE I -5
FREEWAY TO ROSECRANS AVENUE: Award a contract to Construction Management
Inspection & Associates to perform contract administration and construction inspection
services: Approve.
Council Minutes 4/11/00 -2-
At
RESOLUTION NO. 6339 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS FOR THE
DOWNEY COMMUNITY AQUATIC CENTER
RESOLUTION NO. 6340 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
---- APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF MARK VASQUEZ TO THE
DOWNEY CITY HOSPITAL COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 1
RESOLUTION NO. 6341 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF GLORIA REED,
RETAIL /COMMERCIAL BUSINESS PERSON, FOR A FOUR (4) YEAR
TERM ON THE CITY'S DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
RESOLUTION NO. 6342 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF RAUL FERNANDEZ, REGISTERED
CIVIL ENGINEER, FOR A FOUR (4) YEAR TERM ON THE CITY'S DESIGN
REVIEW BOARD
RESOLUTION NO. 6343 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF ALEX BACA, LICENSED GENERAL
.— CONTRACTOR, FOR A FOUR (4) YEAR TERM ON THE CITY'S DESIGN
REVIEW BOARD
RESOLUTION NO. 6344 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY,
APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF DALE SELF, ALTERNATE
LICENSED GENERAL CONTRACTOR, FOR A FOUR (4) YEAR TERM ON
THE CITY'S DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
RESOLUTION NO. 6345 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF FRANK PRIETO, CITIZEN -AT-
LARGE, FOR A TWO (2) YEAR TERM ON THE CITY'S DESIGN REVIEW
BOARD
Council Minutes 4/11/00 -3-
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RESOLUTION NO. 6346 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF GRAHAM STANLEY, REGISTERED
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT, FOR A TWO (2) YEAR TERM ON THE CITY'S
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
RESOLUTION NO. 6347 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY ----
APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF GILBERT FLORES, ALTERNATE
REGISTERED LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT, FOR A TWO (2) YEAR TERM
ON THE CITY'S DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
RESOLUTION NO. 6348 (ADOPT)
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 2000 -2001
RESOLUTION NO. 6349 (ADOPT)
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 THE FISCAL
YEAR 2000 -2001
RESOLUTION NO. 6350 (ADOPT)
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 2000 -2001
RESOLUTION NO. 6351 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY IN
SUPPORT OF THE CENTRAL BASIN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT'S
CENTRAL BASIN WATER QUALITY PROTECTION PROJECT
Council Minutes 4/11/00 -4-
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ORDINANCES
. ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTIONS 6599.2 AND 6599.5 OF THE
DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADDING SECTION 6599.12 TO THE
DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO PUBLICATION VENDING
MACHINES (NEWSPAPER RACKS)
Ms. Yotsuya explained that Code amendment language has been prepared regarding
publication vending machines, formerly referred to as newsracks, to address areas, such as the
application process, liability insurance, and indemnification requirements to current standards.
Additional language to clarify the placement of publication vending machines on public right -of-
ways was added, with staff recommending a limit of eight units per location and the ability to
increase this amount based on a determination of need by the Public Works Director. New
language addresses the issue of abandonment or non -use, with an inventory prepared for all
vending machines in the City's public right -of -way. Following the effective date of any
amendments, the Public Works Department will initiate a new publication vending machine permit
process that will include contacting all vendors to insure compliance with permit and insurance
requirements, maintenance standards, and abatement procedures. The limit of machines per
location will be administered on a first -come, first -serve basis and one machine per location will
be enforced. Staff recommends the permit fee be set at $20 per machine, with the renewal fee
also at $20 per machine.
Council Member Lawrence stated her concern on this issue resulted from the fact that vending
machines were proliferating in the City and she thanked Chuck Anna for his survey, noting it is
appearance and quantity that are in question. She felt the permit process should be available by fax or
the Internet. She referred to Section 6599.5 (g) of the Downey Municipal Code regarding text on the
machines, which is a source of concern, stating she wanted to be sure that Section 6599.5 (h) would
keep the machines more subdued and low key.
Council Member McCaughan noted he received a number of newsletters regarding newsracks
and felt liability was an issue. He felt the Code Amendments presented establish a system and a
maintenance program. . Also, the City should have control to regulate equipment that exists on the
public right -of -way and he hoped the system would include sending a notice if a permittee's liability
insurance has lapsed.
Council Member McCaughan requested reviewing the application process before the next
meeting.
Ms. questions responded a ded to uestions and concerns of the Council. She recommended
p
changing Code Section 6599.5 (h) to read: "No such machine shall be used for advertising signs or
publicity purposes other than dealing with the display, sale or purchase of the publication sold therein
and shall be of a generally accepted industry style and color." This, she said, would be the generic box
that is brown or black with clear glass in front.
Council Minutes 4/11/00 . -
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It was suggested this item be held over, but Mr. Vose noted he was comfortable with the
language change mentioned and suggested going forward unless the Council has other concerns.
Council Member Lawrence asked about the downtown area and was informed this may be
accomplished through a type of overlay zone and should not be included at this point. She asked for
information on guidelines set up in other cities.
It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Winningham
and unanimously carried to waive further reading and introduce, with the information requested
by Council Member Lawrence and adding new language in Section 6599.5 (h), as noted. Staff --
was directed to return to the next City Council meeting with a Resolution adopting new fees for
the application and renewal of publication vending machine permits.
RESOLUTIONS: None
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
DOWNTOWN FACADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
Ms. Garcia narrated a visual program, pointing out the Council approved the Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) budget, which included funds for economic development
activities. She noted the Council and staff are interested in developing a Facade Improvement
Program and have researched programs in other cities. The program has been discussed with the
Downtown Subcommittee, Downtown Merchants Committee, and property and business owners; and
a program has been developed which is felt to be accessible to property owners and business owners in
the downtown area. She reviewed main components of the program, noting property owners will be
required to sign a facade easement and submit proof of insurance, and she reviewed the boundaries
and why they were selected. She advised the contractor must pay prevailing wages, which is a
provision related to CDBG funds, and noted staff is pursuing working with a construction
management firm that has experience on a number of government related development projects. She
reviewed the flow chart in the Council packet outlining the steps from the start of the project to the
completion, noting staff will provide oversight of the program. With Council approval, staff will begin
to market the program and after anticipated interest, will reevaluate the program and possibly change
the boundaries or the requirements. She responded to comments from the Council.
Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street, noted the program has $80,000 in its budget, with
$50,000 already given to the Granata family for their upcoming project on Downey Avenue. He
questioned why the City has now established a maximum rebate of $20,000 for other applicants.
Mr. Caton explained the rebate to the Granata family was a business deal between the
Redevelopment Agency and the property owner who was investing a half - million dollars in the
downtown area, which included sizeable changes to the front wall. He pointed out the facade
improvement program is a CDBG program, whereby the City anticipates many businesses will only
spend $20,000 and the City will in effect be paying 100 percent of these facade improvements.
John Lacey, 8419 Dacosta Street, President of the Downey Chamber of Commerce, said the
Chamber felt it was very important to reenergize this area, understands the budgetary restraints, and
commends the City for moving the process forward.
Council Minutes 4/11/00 -6-
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Dianne Lumsdaine, 9926 Pangborn Avenue, Planning Commissioner, District 5, speaking in
favor, questioned the length of time for the facade easement and what will occur after five years if it is
not kept up.
Mr. Caton replied staff' struggled with the easement time frame and found this is what appears
to be the norm in other cities. After the five -year period it would become a Code Enforcement matter.
It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Lawrence, and
unanimously carried to approve the Downtown Facade Improvement Program and authorize the
City Manager to approve projects and execute related Agreements with participants.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS .
Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street, commented on increased traffic congestion on
Patton Road and Firestone Boulevard when Downey High School students leave the parking lot via
the gate on Firestone Boulevard; mentioned graffiti occurring daily on the National 0-Ring and
Coca -Cola buildings 'in this area and at the Days Inn Hotel located near the school's gate on
Lakewood Boulevard; and mentioned pick -up points selected by the parents after school, which create
traffic problems in the Washington Mutual Savings parking lot, at the Mobil Gas Station, and Ralph's
center. He felt this should be discussed at the joint meeting with the Downey Unified School District.
He also mentioned difficulty for semi - trucks travelling northbound on Lakewood Boulevard to
turn eastbound on Firestone Boulevard because the lane is too narrow and felt a sign should be
posted stating no right turns by trucks at this corner.
Creasie Adams, Pacific Bell, 1010 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, introduced herself as the
new External Affairs Director for the Downey area and submitted business cards for the Council.
John McDonald, 11028 Elmcroft Avenue, requested the Council proclaim May as Motorcycle
Awareness and You Month, explaining May is when most motorcycles come out of the garage for
the first time. He noted 80 percent of accidents between cars and motorcycles are charged to the car
driver and urged everyone to be aware.
Lucy Lynn Wilson, 8733 Tweedy Lane, representing Maude Price Elementary School,
explained the students are reaching out to the business and residential community to help build a new
computer lab. She submitted a card and requested the City display the card this month while
businesses are asked to recognize the need for a computer lab and make a donation. In turn, donors
will be named in honor of the computer lab and will become part of the history of this project.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS (Cont.)
I -710 CORRIDOR MAJOR INVESTMENT STUDY (MIS)
Desi Alvarez mentioned the I -710 Freeway is very busy and associated with it are a series of
streets that carry traffic moving goods from the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. This corridor
has been taken for granted and has not received its fair share of transportation dollars in terms of
improvements to mitigate traffic impacts. He indicated there has been attention focused on this issue
and the Gateway Cities Council of Governments (COG) has worked to attract attention to
Council Minutes 4/11/00 -
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improvements needed to the I -710 corridor. He cited the need for a better definition of the impacts of
the corridor in the associated communities and of the types of projects that would relieve those
impacts. A major investment study of the corridor is a key way to achieve this. A group of agencies
has been formed to fund the study, which will cost $3.5 million and will be sponsored by Caltrans, the
Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and Southern California Association of Governments
(SCAG), in addition to the COG. The COG are responsible for funding approximately $250,000 of
the cost and have come together and proposed an agreement whereby each city will put forward its
share of the study. He recommended authorizing the City to enter into an agreement with the COG
for implementing the MIS study and appropriate $50,000 from the Gas Tax Fund to cover Downey's
cost of this work.
Mayor McCarthy noted that he and Council Member McCaughan take turns representing
Downey at the COG and have reviewed this issue. He said the amount contributed from the cities
involved is less than 10 percent of the proposed action and favored the Council's support.
Council Member Winningham inquired if there was a contingency plan if any cities have a
shortfall and did not participate and was informed that most of the cities are committed to the study.
Mr. Caton noted the donation is for a two -year period and if everyone participates, there will
be an overage of nearly $100,000, which provides some leeway.
It was moved by Council Member Winningham, seconded by Council Member Lawrence, and
unanimously carried to authorize the Mayor to sign an agreement with the Gateway Cities
Council of Governments (GCCOG) for the purpose of implementing the subject study; and
appropriate $50,000 from the Gas Tax Fund for the subject study.
OTHER BUSINESS - Consent Calendar - Items removed by Council Approval
CASH CONTRACT NO. S.S. 509 — CITYWIDE SLURRY SEAL (ACCOUNT NO. 26-
16509)
Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street, mentioned a conversation with National 0-Ring this
week regarding their project to slurry seal their parking lot. He was advised that the Air Quality
Management District (AQMD) governs slurry - sealing requirements and inquired if local government is
subject to the same requirements. .
Mr. Caton explained the City is protesting these requirements along with 26 other cities to the
California State Water Quality Board, noting that now, these conditions do not apply to City streets.
It was moved by Council Member Winningham, seconded by Council Member Lawrence and
unanimously carried to approve Plans and Specifications and grant authority to advertise for
bids on Cash Contract No. S.S. 509 — Citywide Slurry Seal.
Council Minutes 4/11/00 -8-
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OTHER BUSINESS - Council Members
OUTDOOR STORAGE IN RANCHO BUSINESS PARK
Ms. Yotsuya explained, at the direction of Council Member Perkins, staff investigated
concerns regarding outside storage and potential code violations in the Rancho Business Park center,
and referred to memos documenting staff's actions. Commenting on Specific Plan No. 88 -1, she
mentioned general language in Section 314(c), which states no materials, supplies, or equipment shall
be stored in any area on a site except within an enclosed building or in an area screened from public
view. This language applies to all properties within the center with the exception of Building F,
currently operated by General Electric Corporation, which was granted based on an interpretation
made by the Planning Commission in April of 1991, and is identified in Section 322 of the Specific
Plan. In conducting their investigation, Code Enforcement officers found that the occupants of
Building F have not followed the established guidelines for outdoor storage and met with a company
representative, as well as with the Fremont Leasing Agent, and issued a violation letter to the
occupant. Other problem areas were identified in the Rancho Business Center with corrective actions
taken or in progress.
Council Member Perkins noted he lives within 500 feet of the Rancho Project and requested
legal counsel on whether he can discuss this issue.
Mr. Vose advised that Council Member Perkins' location is not within 500 feet of Building F,
which is a separate user from the remainder of the project. The specific Specific Plan provision
mentioned does not affect the property within 500 feet of Council Member Perkins' location and he
was advised to proceed with his comments.
Council Member Perkins noted the Rancho project started in 1984; is built on land owned by
the County of Los Angeles; was developed to give the County revenue and to support the Hospital
north of Imperial Highway; and was built around a Specific Plan drafted to protect the neighborhood
and to give the developer and County a good return on their money. It was the intent of the project to
..�. have no outside storage; however, one section has been granted outside storage and he questioned
why only this section was allowed outdoor storage. He stated there have been many violations on the
subject property, requesting the Mayor read the first paragraph of a letter from Code Enforcement to
this tenant.
Council Member Perkins noted violations have been occurring since 1998 and read a letter
from Fremont Associates dated June 2, 1998, to Ron Yoshiki, Director of Planning, regarding this
issue. He presented a visual program depicting the violations and felt the Council had two choices to
control this situation: The City can continue to spend Code Enforcement's time to write letters
regarding violations; or it can take a proactive stance by eliminating the problem by revisiting the
Specific Plan and removing the allowance for outside storage. He requested this issue be returned to
the Planning Commission.
Council Member Winningham commented he visited the site with Council Member Perkins and
viewed the violations depicted. He noted this business probably operates 24 -hours a day, is an
extremely large building and it appears to have more than enough space inside to handle storage needs.
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It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member McCaughan, and
unanimously carried to approve sending this matter back to the Planning Commission to revisit
the Specific Plan.
Prior to the vote, Council Member McCaughan questioned the legalities of how the Specific
Plan can be changed. He hoped Code Enforcement would be active on this property and suggested
revoking the business license if they do not comply.
Council Member Winningham inquired if there could be a large fine for repeated Code
violations and was informed violations of the Code are misdemeanors and non - compliance is dealt —"
with through the judicial system, with any monetary penalty determined by a Judge. He questioned
whether the City would have the right to review the lease to see if it is in any way based on outside
storage.
Council Member Lawrence mentioned being on the Planning Commission in April of 1971
when this was approved and noted the staff report from that meeting, which would show what the
decision was based upon, was not included with this report. She felt all this information should be sent
back to the Planning Commission for review, noting there are more egregious Code violations
throughout the City.
Council Member Perkins mentioned attending the Gangs Out of Downey (GOOD) luncheon,
which was outstanding and a complete sellout.
Council Member Perkins acknowledged participating in the ARC Walk on Saturday, which
was well attended.
Council Member Perkins commented on attending a League of California Cities meeting
held in the City of Commerce.
Council Member Perkins advised he represents the City on the Independent Cities Risk
Management Authority (ICRMA) and thanked Lowell Williams, Finance Director, for also
representing the City on the ICRMA and doing a fine job. He mentioned receiving several kind
comments regarding Mr. Williams from the other members.
Council Member McCaughan acknowledged that an independent girls' volleyball team
called "Specifit," ranging in age from sixth grade to twelfth grade, had one division chosen to attend
the Junior Olympics and will represent Downey in Louisville, Kentucky.
Council Member McCaughan requested to see three items included in his budget wish list:
Improvements in the right -of -way along Paramount Boulevard from Imperial Highway to Consuelo
Street; improvements on Lakewood Boulevard from Gallatin Road to Florence Avenue; and
consideration of lighting for the baseball field at Warren High School.
Council Member McCaughan mentioned receiving complaints about a specific carport in his
district where a garage was converted to living space and was replaced by a carport, which is
permitted by Code. He felt this provision is substandard and hoped a Code Amendment could be
brought back within the next 30 to 90 days to prohibit these conversions.
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u,..
Council Member McCaughan commented on the need to renew redevelopment areas that
will be expiring soon in order to allow projects to continue to develop.
Council Member McCaughan suggested moving forward with development of the
Downtown area, particularly on property owned by the City.
Council Member McCaughan mentioned the Rio Hondo School PTA supports the installation
of a crosswalk near the school at Rives Avenue and Muller Street. He requested data from the Traffic
Committee Meeting regarding the passing of the State .warrant and the Minutes of the April 6
Meeting.
Council Member McCaughan referred to the unsightly property on the west side of
Paramount Boulevard north of the railroad tracks. He felt this property should be declared a
public nuisance and abated.
Council Member McCaughan referred to information in the Minutes of the Recreation and
Community Services Commission regarding the refurbishing of the Golf Course Clubhouse and
suggested moving forward on this matter.
Council Member McCaughan mentioned teen centers located in the City of Long Beach and
suggested discussing a teen center concept with the Downey Unified School District and possibly
forming a teen subcommittee.
Council Member McCaughan noted receiving complaints about the Mazda dealership next
to Greenwood GMC being painted purple and yellow and suggested controls be placed on colors used
in the commercial district.
Council Member McCaughan mentioned seeing a flier on "Splatter House 5" and requested
information on the activities at that site.
Council Member Lawrence thanked the Downey Chamber of Commerce and Red Cross for
honoring City employees recently.
Council Member Lawrence mentioned complaints from people in beach areas due to the
amount of trash washing down the riverbeds, noting that Downey has been a leader with the Keep
Downey Beautiful Program devoted to community cleanliness voluntarily, and a leader in recycling
issues.
Council Member Lawrence commented on the new memorial being constructed at the
Downey Cemetery and noted a neighboring city's cemetery, Woodlawn Cemetery, has been
padlocked because of irregularities, with measures taken to bring it into compliance. She commended
the Downey Cemetery, stating it is in good shape.
Council Member Winningham requested to have the comments raised by Mr. Whittington
regarding parking problems at the gas station, Ralph's center, etc., placed on the City - School Meeting
Agenda in May.
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13 452
Council Member Winningham requested a Proclamation declaring May as Motorcycle
Awareness. and You Month be placed on the Agenda.
Council Member Winningham commented on the Downey Police Officer injured in a traffic
accident caused by a driver running a red light. He noted he shared this information with his children
to emphasize the need for defensive driving.
Council Member Winningham acknowledged the Downey Firefighter injured in an off - road
accident, who is recovering through the diligent work of his fellow firefighters, who he commended
for their safety skills.
Council Member Winningham requested the Maude Price Elementary School card submitted
earlier requesting donations for their computer lab be displayed at City Hall in the rotunda, as he felt
this was a worthwhile effort.
Council Member Winningham asked that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Kathleen
Derry, mother of Jim and Stella Derry, who are' very active in the community; and Donald Burns,
father of Pastor Scott Burns and Sandy Burns of the Trinity Baptist Church in Downey, who are also
active in the community.
Mayor McCarthy drew attention to the southern end of Paramount Boulevard and hopes it
is included in the citywide street resurfacing contract approved this evening.
Mayor McCarthy mentioned attending opening day of baseball for the Downey Junior
Athletic Association (DJAA), noting this organization is assisted by the City and run by a number of
volunteers who coach and organize the league.
Mayor McCarthy referenced earlier comments regarding the need for a computer lab at the
Maude Price School and hoped this request would also be forwarded to the meetings of the Downey
Unified School District.
Mayor McCarthy advised that he and Council Member Winningham met with representatives
from the Oneighty facility, stating it is his understanding there has been a disagreement with the
owner of the property and the sign has been removed. He felt this was unfortunate and noted he
would follow up on this issue.
Mayor McCarthy commended the graffiti removal crew for being responsive to calls and
noted Scott Trousdale and Robert Bryan were instrumental in the recent arrest of a tagger. He noted
having speed dialing on his cell phone and calls the graffiti hotline and shopping cart pickup
numbers almost daily to report incidents.
Mayor McCarthy mentioned a letter of commendation from the Los Angeles Inter- Agency
Metropolitan Police Apprehension Crime Force commending Detective Robert Del Rio on his
participation in a drug bust on March 2nd.
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4 5
Mayor McCarthy commented on a Construction Awareness Meeting to be held April 13th at
7:00 p.m. at Old River Elementary School, initiated by the Army Corps of Engineers to answer
questions regarding flood control construction that will commence in April where the Los Angeles
River and Rio Hondo Channel come together.
OTHER BUSINESS - Stag Members
Mr. Caton thanked the public and the reporters who stayed through the entire meeting.
Mr. Caton mentioned receiving letters daily commending City employees, noting a thank
you is a great motivator to people. S
Mr. Caton commended the members of the Kiwins Club who were present this evening and
noted the Assistant City Manager is the current President of the Kiwanis Club. He also mentioned
staff members Ron Yoshiki and Judith McDonnell, who are members of various service clubs serving
the community. .
Mr. Caton updated the Council on the Water Replenishment District issue, noting Public
Works Director and Council Member Winningham will be in Sacramento tomorrow to testify on this
issue.
Mr. Caton mentioned the LACDA flood control project, which the City has been working on
for ten years, stating the Federal Government was going to raise flood insurance rates but through the
efforts of the seven cities in the LACDA Alliance and Congressman Steven Horn, the current rates will
be extended for a two -year period. He also noted good news was received today in that the City will
be in a new status called A -99, which will eliminate construction limitations. He mentioned that
during the next Council Meeting he and one of the Council Members will be lobbying in Washington
for approximately $10 million to complete the flood control project, which would bring the City out of
the flood plain and eliminate the flood insurance requirement.
• Mr. Caton commented on the status of the I - Freeway widening project and noted the
City's goal is to see the freeway enhanced without going out of the existing right -of -way and without
impacting residential areas.
Mr. Caton also commented on the new Senior Citizen housing project underway on Third
Street.
ADJOURNMENT: 10:10 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned in memory of Donald Burns, father of Pastor Scott Burns of
the Trinity Baptist Church; and Kathleen Derry, mother of longtime Downey resident Jim
Derry, to 6:30 p.m.; April 25, 2000, in the Council Chamber of Downey City Hall.
, - f ,; ',kr { .f, '1 m. yes -. ®= {`.! ¢.., =.z ✓' `,:' ., 1
Judith E. McDonnell, Cit y Clerk (eith McCarthy, Mayor
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Council Minutes 4/11/00 - 13 -