HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 06-13-00 - Regular Meeting MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
JUNE 13, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Certificates of Appreciation to Census 2000 Complete Count
Committee members 1
Proclamation re Outstanding School Crossing Guard of the Year 1
Res. #6367, approving the Mitigated Negative Declaration for
the Transit Center at Downey Ave. & Nance St. Adopted 2
Res. #6368, confirming the 2000 -2001 Fiscal Year Assessment
for Lighting & Landscaping Dist. A.D. 121 Adopted 3
Res. #6369, adopting General Plan Amendment No. 00 -16 for
properties on Imperial Hwy. & Bellflower Blvd. Adopted 5
Removal of Items from Consent Calendar 5
Council Minutes: Adj. & Reg. Mtgs. 5/23/00 Approved 5
Warrants Issued: 9216 — 9789, $1,655,032.96 Approved 5
Specific Plan Amendment No. SP 88 -1 AB — request to
clarify prohibition of outdoor storage at Rancho Business Set hrg. 7:30 p.m.
Center 6/27/00 6
Proposed 5 -Year Consolidated Plan for Community Dev. Set hrg. 7:30 p. m.
Block Grant & Home Investment Partnership Programs 6/27/00 6
Amend contract for Project Management Services with
David Rodriguez Approved 6
Res. #6370, designating Cecilia St. as through street at
intersection w /Crossdale Ave. Adopted 6
Res. #6371, adopting class specification & establishing
salary range for equipment maintenance supervisor Adopted 6
Res. #6372, calling & giving notice of General
Municipal Election on November 7, 2000 Adopted 6
PAGE 1 OF 3
COUNCIL MINUTES, JUNE 13, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Res. #6373, requesting Board of Supervisors of the County
of L. A. to consolidate the City's General Municipal Election
with the Statewide General Election on November 7, 2000 Adopted 6
Res. #6374, adopting regulations for Candidates' Statements
for elective office for the General Municipal Election on 11/7/00 Adopted 7
Ord. #1082, authorizing an amendment to the contract between
the City Council and Board of Admin. of the California Public
Employees' Retirement System Adopted 7
Resignation of Council Member Lawrence: Accept & declare Approved;
her Council District Seat vacant & set hearing to discuss Set hrg. 7:30 p.m.
applications 7/11/00 7
Election of Mayor Pro Tem: Select Council Member Winningham
for the remainder of Council Member Lawrence's term Approved 8
Cash Contract #613 — Rio San Gabriel Park — ballfield lighting:
Award contract to Power Distributors Inc. & appropriate funds
in amount of $150,000 Approved 9
Agreement for crossing guard services: Amend agreement,
extending for one year the City's crossing guard agreement with
All City Management Services, Inc. Approved 9
Supplemental Appropriations: Appropriate $1,027,994 from
the General Fund for litigation, employee salary increases &
NASA land purchase Approved 9
Res. #6375, approving the application for grant funds from
the County of L. A. for Rio San Gabriel Park Athletic &
Program Field lighting improvements Adopted 10
Mayor McCarthy's request to reconsider the building design
plan for the Downey Transit Center Ref. to staff 10
Front Yard Areas Ref. to staff 11
Canopies Ref. to staff 11
Garage Conversions & Carports Ref. to staff 11
PAGE 2 OF 3
COUNCIL MINUTES, JUNE 13, 2000
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Warren High School baseball field lights: Allocate $250,000
for a joint use agreement with Downey Unified School Dist. Approved 12
Downey Unified School District — program funding in the
Fiscal Year 2000 City Budget Withdrawn 12
Cn. McCaughan complimented Memorial Day services at
the Downey Cemetery 12
Cn. Winningham offered best wishes for a speedy recovery
to Lennie Whittington, who broke his hip 12
Cn. Winningham noted this is the last meeting of Fire Chief
Ron Irwin, who is retiring, & wished him well 12
Cn. Perkins complimented crossing guard Rosella McCray &
the crossing guard on Imperial Hwy. near Imperial Elementary
School 12
Cn. Perkins thanked the Downey Eagle for article re household
hazardous waste round -up at Downey High School 6/17/00 13
Cn. Perkins re American Legion Memorial Day Service on
May 29th at Downey Cemetery 13
Mayor McCarthy re Flag Day 6/14/00 13
Mayor McCarthy re workshop on 6/15/00 by Gateway Cities
Council of Governments 13
Mayor McCarthy re last performances of the "King and I" &
urged everyone to attend 13
Mayor McCarthy noted the Budget Hearing will be 6/27/00 13
Adjourned in memory of Timothy Edward Caton, brother of
City Manager Gerald Caton, & Mary Angela Buck, mother of
Robert Rowe, Deputy Fire Marshal 13
Meeting adjourned to 6:30 p . m. , June 27, 2000 13
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MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
JUNE 13, 2000
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:45 p.m., June 13, 2000, in
the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Keith McCarthy presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Keith McCarthy Mayor -
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
John Michicoff, Assistant Director of Finance
Ron Yoshiki, Asst. Director of Community Dev. /City Planner
Steven Yee, Economic Development Coordinator
June Yotsuya, Assistant to the City Manager
Shirley Conte, Executive Secretary
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor McCarthy presented Certificates of Appreciation to Census 2000 Complete Count
Committee members Zane Williamson, Connie Sziebl, Deanna Tan, Sonia Sandoval, Ruth
Hillecke and Raquel Valdes in recognition of their work to bring public attention to the importance
of the census. (Mary Weidman, Barbara Briley Beard and Bettie Skelton were not present to receive
their Certificates).
Mary Martineau of the Planning Department, thanked the Census Committee for its hard work
and advised the committee placed second in the Gateway Cities in regard to turnout, as of the end of
April, with 84 percent participation.
Mayor McCarthy nd Chief Finch presented a Proclamation to Rosella McCray
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commending her outstanding service to children in the community and declaring her selection
as Outstanding School Crossing Guard of the Year.
Council Minutes 6/13/00 -1-
1548 8
HEARINGS
Mayor McCarthy opened the public hearing to CONSIDER ADOPTING A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND MITIGATION PLAN FOR THE DOWNEY TRANSIT
CENTER.
Ms. McDonnell affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council
Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member McCaughan, and so ordered to receive and file.
Mr. Jarrett stated the entitlement process for the $2 million FTA grant includes the State
Mandate that potential environmental impacts of the project be analyzed in accordance with the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Findings were that the Intermodal Transit Project
complied with the CEQA Act of 1970, the State CEQA guidelines, and the City's revised procedures
for implementing CEQA. An initial study was provided by outside consultants, Jones and Stokes,
whose findings were that the project does not exceed the criteria established under mandatory findings
of significance.
There was no correspondence received regarding this matter.
There being no one present wishing to speak, it was moved by Council Member Winningham,
seconded by Council Member Perkins, and so ordered to close the hearing.
RESOLUTION NO. 6367
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR THE
TRANSIT CENTER AT DOWNEY AVENUE AND NANCE STREET
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Winningham,
seconded by Council Member McCaughan, and unanimously carried (4 -0) to waive further
--- reading and adopt.
Prior to the vote, Council Member Perkins referred to the peak hours listed in the study by
Jones & Stokes, stating he felt there was more traffic on Downey Avenue than what was listed.
Chad Beckstrom of Jones & Stokes, 17310 Red Hill Avenue, Irvine, advised that a traffic
impact study was prepared by a registered traffic engineer, with counts taken during morning and
evening peak hours.
Council Member Perkins inquired as to whether the traffic engineer was present and was
informed he was unable to attend. He then expressed disappointment the engineer was not
available to answer questions and hoped in the future that consultants involved in conducting
studies would be present to answer questions. He inquired as to what mitigation measures will be
taken and was informed La Reina Avenue will be widened to accommodate bus traffic.
Council Minutes 6/13/00 -2-
LI 48 9
Mayor McCarthy opened the public hearing on LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPING
DISTRICT A.D. 121 – RESOLUTION CONFIRMING 2000 - 01 DISTRICT LEVY.
Ms. McDonnell affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication and Affidavit of Posting of
Notice. It was moved by Council Member Winningham, seconded by Council Member
McCaughan and so ordered to receive and file.
Mr. Alvarez noted the City has an extensive system of street lights, the majority of which
are owned by Southern California Edison, with maintenance costs funded by the City through
assessments imposed under the Landscaping and Lighting District Act. The assessments also —
maintain public landscaping throughout the City and this hearing is held to set rates for the
coming year's assessments. He referred to Table 1 in the staff report, advising there are no
changes in the assessments from last year.
There was no correspondence received regarding this matter.
Mayor McCarthy asked if there was anyone present to speak in opposition or in favor of
the Lighting and Landscaping Assessments.
Richard B. Pridham, 10402 Bellman Avenue, mentioned he counted six street lights out
between Civic Center Drive and Firestone Boulevard a few days ago and felt the City should
make sure lights are on and that there was no effective way of insuring maintenance standards at
this time. He mentioned conducting his own survey of each light in North Downey, obtaining
pole numbers and street addresses as best he could.
There being no one else to speak, it was moved by Council Member McCaughan,
seconded by Council Member Perkins, and so ordered to close the hearing.
RESOLUTION NO. 6368
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
CONFIRMING THE 2000 -2001 FISCAL YEAR ASSESSMENT FOR
LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPING DISTRICT A.D. 121
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member McCaughan,
seconded by Council Member Winningham, and unanimously carried (4 -0) to waive further
reading and adopt.
Council Member Winningham also noticed lights being off and felt it was due to an
electrical problem, as they were back on within a day or two. He mentioned the efforts of Jerry
Andrews of the Downey Eagle who made a list of the lights, met with an Edison representative
and ran ublic awareness ads in the Downey Eagle at his own expense and stated it takes the
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cooperation of the community and continued pressure on Southern California Edison.
Council Member Perkins noted none of the assessments exceed the maximum established
by the City Council in 1993, with the rates for all zones remaining unchanged from last year.
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Council Member McCaughan commented this is an important function with little or no
change in the rates from year to year and suggested the Water Replenishment District follow suit
with their pumping tax rates.
Mayor McCarthy noted the City will continue to remind Southern California Edison of the
need for continued maintenance of the lights, advising they were responsive last year and staff will
meet with them in the near future to mention this again.
Mr. Caton pointed out the residential rate will be zero, same as last year.
Mayor McCarthy opened the public hearing to CONSIDER GENERAL PLAN
AMENDMENT NO. 00 -16 TO RE- CLASSIFY PROPERTIES LOCATED 9501 -45, 9557-
61, 9607, 9623, 9637 AND 9641 IMPERIAL HIGHWAY AND 12432 -12530
BELLFLOWER BOULEVARD FROM NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL TO
COMMERCIAL MANUFACTURING.
Ms. McDonnell affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was so ordered to receive
and file.
Mr. Yoshiki explained this is a land use policy proposal to amend the City's General Plan.
He narrated a visual program of the subject properties located at the northeast corner of
Bellflower Boulevard and Imperial Highway, noting the current land use designation is
commercial. The applicants have requested this amendment to reflect a commercial
manufacturing combination, which the Planning Commission decided was the best policy, as it
removes the size restriction, eliminates heavy industry, and does not advance general
warehousing. He responded to comments from the Council.
There was no correspondence received regarding this matter.
Mayor McCarthy asked if the applicant or his representative wished to address the
Council.
Mark Canard of Valley Architectural Group, 81 Columbia, Aliso Viejo, representing Craig
Lyons for the property at 9641 Imperial Highway, supported the Resolution and felt the new
designation would allow greater use of the land and facilitates the development of a difficult
narrow lot.
Mayor McCarthy asked if there was anyone present who wished to speak in favor of the
General Plan amendment.
Dorothy Palermo, 7600 Sarabeth Street, trustee of the property at 9607 Imperial
Highway, stated she was in favor of the change and felt it will be an improvement in this block.
There being no one else to speak in favor or in opposition, it was moved by Council
Member Winningham, seconded by Council Member Perkins, and so ordered to close the
hearing.
Council Minutes 6/13/00 -4-
134i.
RESOLUTION NO. 6369
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY TO
ADOPT GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 00 -16 TO THE LAND USE
ELEMENT OF THE DOWNEY GENERAL PLAN TO RE- CLASSIFY SIX (6)
LOTS FROM THE "NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL" LAND USE
DESIGNATION TO THE "COMMERCIAL- MANUFACTURING" LAND USE
DESIGNATION ON PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 12432 —12530
BELLFLOWER BOULEVARD, AND 9501 -45, 9557 -61, 9607, 9623, 9637, 9641
IMPERIAL HIGHWAY ZONED LIGHT MANUFACTURING (M -1), --�
GENERAL MANUFACTURING (M.-2), AND PARKING- BUFFER (P -B), AND
ADOPT A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Winningham,
seconded by Council Member Perkins and unanimously carried (4 -0) to waive further reading
and adopt.
Council Member McCaughan requested staff to check into the activities taking place in the
shed pictured in one of the slides, noting he frequents the park behind this property and has seen
people exit the shed through a hole in the fence onto Dunrobin Avenue.
Mayor McCarthy requested staff clarify why the proposed request by the applicant was
not fully granted.
Mr. Yoshiki explained that staff's original recommendation of the applicant's request to
construct a self - storage /mini- warehouse facility on two of the six properties was denial but the
Planning Commission felt there could be a distinction between general warehouse distribution/ -
storage, which would normally be found in an industrial development, and self- storage /mini-
warehouse, which is homeowner -type storage.
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS FOR REMOVAL ---
Agenda Items VI - - CASH CONTRACT NO. 613, RIO SAN GABRIEL PARK —
BALLFIELD LIGHTING, VI - - AGREEMENT FOR CROSSING GUARD SERVICES,
VI - - SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS, and VI - - RESOLUTION APPROVING
FILING OF GRANT APPLICATION FOR RIO SAN GABRIEL PARK — SPORTS
LIGHTING, were removed at the request of Council Member McCaughan.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Council Member Winningham, seconded by Council Member McCaughan,
and unanimously carried (4 - to waive further reading of the Resolutions and approve the
remainder of the Consent Calendar as recommended:
COUNCIL MINUTES: ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETINGS, MAY 23, 2000,
AND SPECIAL CALLED MEETING, MAY 31, 2000: Approve.
WARRANTS ISSUED: NO. 9216 — 9789, $1,655,032.96: Approve.
Council Minutes 6/13/00 -5-
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SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT NO. SP 88 -1AB — A REQUEST TO CLARIFY THE
PROHIBITION OF OUTDOOR STORAGE AT RANCHO BUSINESS CENTER AS
SPECIFIED IN SECTION 111.14c OF THESE SPECIFIC PLANS: Set hearing for 7:30
p.m., June 27, 2000, in the Council Chamber of Downey City Hall: Approve.
PROPOSED 5 -YEAR CONSOLIDATED PLAN FOR THE COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT AND HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP
PROGRAMS: Set hearing for 7:30 p.m., June 27, 2000, in the Council Chamber of Downey
City Hall: Approve.
AMEND CONTRACT FOR PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICES WITH DAVID
RODRIGUEZ: Amend the professional services agreement for professional services related
to the NASA site: Approve.
RESOLUTION NO. 6370 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DESIGNATING CECILIA STREET AS A THROUGH STREET AT ITS
INTERSECTION WITH CROSSDALE AVENUE
RESOLUTION NO. 6371 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ADOPTING A CLASS SPECIFICATION AND ESTABLISHING A SALARY
RANGE FOR EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR
RESOLUTION NO. 6372 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY,
`—' CALIFORNIA, CALLING AND GIVING NOTICE OF THE HOLDING OF A
GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD IN SAID CITY ON
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2000, FOR THE ELECTION OF CERTAIN
OFFICERS OF SAID CITY AS REQUIRED BY THE PROVISIONS OF THE
CHARTER OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
RESOLUTION NO. 6373 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY,
CALIFORNIA, REQUESTING THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES TO CONSOLIDATE THE CITY OF DOWNEY
GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL
ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 7, 2000, PURSUANT TO
SECTION 10400 ET SEQ. OF THE CALIFORNIA ELECTIONS CODE
Council Minutes 6/13/00 -6-
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RESOLUTION NO. 6374 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING REGULATIONS FOR CANDIDATES'
STATEMENTS FOR ELECTIVE OFFICE, PERTAINING TO MATERIALS
SUBMITTED TO THE ELECTORATE AND THE COSTS THEREOF FOR
THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD IN SAID CITY ON
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2000
ORDINANCE NO. 1082 (ADOPT)
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AUTHORIZING AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE BOARD OF
ADMINISTRATION OF THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES'
RETIREMENT SYSTEM
ORDINANCES: None
RESOLUTIONS: None
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
RESIGNATION OF COUNCIL MEMBER LAWRENCE AND CONSIDERATION OF
FILLING VACANCY IN DISTRICT 5
Mr. Vose advised he was directed by the Council at its last meeting to come back with options
available for filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Council Member Lawrence. He referred
to his memorandum recommending the Council accept the resignation submitted by Council Member
Lawrence and then declare her Council District seat vacant and determine whether to fill the vacancy
before the next General Municipal Election with an eligible person within the next 60 days. If so, a --
public hearing should be scheduled at which time the Council would receive input from eligible
applicants and come to a decision. If not, no further action is required and the district seat will remain
vacant until filled at the next General Municipal Election. He referred to the Discussion section of his
memorandum, commenting on the language in City Charter Section 503 (b) and (e), noting it was
important for the Council to consider the "shall" terminology in deciding whether they want to make
an appointment pending the November election.
It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Winningham,
and unanimously carried (4 - to accept the resignation letter submitted by Council Member
Lawrence and declare her Council District Seat officially vacant.
After discussion b y the Council, it was moved by Council Member Winningham, seconded by
Council Member McCaughan, and carried by the following vote, to set a public hearing for 7 :30
p.m., Jul 11, 2000, to discuss the applications received for the vacant District 5 Council Seat.
p July
AYES 3 Council Members: Winningham, McCaughan, McCarthy
NOES 1 Council Members: Perkins
Council Minutes 6/13/00 -7-
154 9
Prior to the vote, Council Member Perkins felt with the November election coming up it would
be unfair to appoint someone who has declared himself or herself a candidate. He felt the Council
should let the people select who they want to represent them on the Council in the November election.
Mayor McCarthy referred to the City Charter and felt it was appropriate to conduct the
hearing and then decide whether or not the vacant seat should be filled.
Further discussion ensued, wherein Mr. Vose gave an interpretation of the language in the
Charter concerning filling the vacancy on the Council.
Council Member Perkins noted he went through this process before and recalled there was a
written proposal requested. He felt the vacancy should be advertised, a resume be submitted, and
suggested each applicant be allowed no more than five minutes to deliver a presentation.
Ms. McDonnell inquired if the Council wished to establish a cut off date for applications.
Mayor McCarthy indicated if someone appears at the hearing without submitting a resume, the
Council will still allow his or her presentation.
Mr. Vose agreed but noted the Council does not have to consider those proposals, that it is not
a public hearing where testimony is taken and a judgement is made, it is at the Council's discretion.
He suggested, if the Council requires an application or resume be submitted, that it be done prior to
release of the Agenda.
There being no objection, it was so ordered to set the requested date for submittal of
applications as June 30th.
ELECTION OF MAYOR PRO TEM
--` It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member McCaughan, and
unanimously carried (4 - to nominate Council Member Winningham as Mayor Pro Tem for the
remainder of Council Member Lawrence's term.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS: None
OTHER BUSINESS - Consent Calendar - Items removed by Council Approval
CASH CONTRACT NO. 613 — RIO SAN GABRIEL PARK — BALLFIELD LIGHTING
Council Member McCaughan requested clarification about the cost of this project funded by
the County, which involves two baseball diamonds, renovation, and demolition, with most of the work
due to the poles having to be installed at a depth of 35 feet in some locations.
Mr. Jarrett noted Rio San Gabriel Park is a former dumpsite, which necessitates the 35-foot
requirement. The second expense of this project is due to the fact the old poles must be removed.
Council Minutes 6/13/00 -8-
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It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Perkins, and
unanimously carried (4 - to award a unit price contract, totaling $397,615.00 to Power
Distributors Inc. for replacement of the ballfield lighting at Rio San Gabriel Park under Cash
Contract No. 613 and appropriate funds in the amount of $150,000.
AGREEMENT FOR CROSSING GUARD SERVICES
Council Member McCaughan noted the staff report mentions an increase and inquired what the
total budget amount would be for the year.
Chief Finch replied it is estimated spending approximately $155,000 this year and approxi-
mately $158,000 in the next budget year.
It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Winningham,
and unanimously carried (4 - to authorize the City Manager to sign the Amended Agreement
extending for one (1) year the City's Crossing Guard Agreement with All City Management
Services, Inc.
SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS
Council Member McCaughan inquired if most of the items listed come out of the reserve or
have been previously budgeted but not appropriated.
Mr. Powell replied all items have been pre- approved with the exception of the $25,200 for
reorganization of the Code Enforcement Department, which is a new item proposed by the Police
Department to enable them to accelerate the reorganization process.
It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Winningham,
and unanimously carried (4 - to appropriate $1,027,994 from the General Fund for litigation,
employee salary increases, and NASA land purchase, as listed in the staff report.
RESOLUTION NO. 6375
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS FROM THE
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES REGIONAL PARK AND OPEN SPACE
DISTRICT PER PARCEL DISCRETIONARY GRANT PROGRAMS FOR RIO
SAN GABRIEL PARK ATHLETIC AND PROGRAM FIELD LIGHTING
IMPROVEMENTS
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member McCaughan,
seconded by Council Member Winningham, and unanimously carried (4 -0) to waive further
reading and adopt.
Prior to the vote, Council Member ex McCaughan explained he removed this item from the
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Consent Calendar but found the answer to his question was included in the report and he had no
further comments.
Council Minutes 6/13/00 -9-
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3 4 OTHER BUSINESS - Council Members
REQUEST OF MAYOR MC CARTHY TO RECONSIDER THE BUILDING DESIGN
PLAN FOR THE DOWNEY TRANSIT CENTER
Mayor McCarthy expressed dissatisfaction regarding the proposed design for the Intermodal
Transit Center. He noted the project is funded by Federal money, has a timeline, and inquired if the
possibility exists to consider redesigning the project to a more traditional design. He requested
comments from the Council.
Council Member McCaughan stated he had hoped the design would be more historical in
nature, since it is the old train station location. He did not object to the redesign, as long as it does not
jeopardize the funds.
Council Member Winningham noted he was on the subcommittee for this project, felt the art
work to be included will bring in a historical aspect, and suggested moving forward.
Council Member Perkins requested information on the schedule for funding and how long a
redesign would take.
Mr. Jarrett explained the project is to be completed by March 31, 2001, and is running several
months behind at this time. The federal representative has advised that being behind is not a problem,
but a long lapse could result in fund monies being awarded to another agency. He felt it would take
between three and four months for a redesign and cost between $70,000 - $90,000. The original
concept was for a building approximately 8,000 square feet that could resemble the old train station;
however, as funding and actual needs were assessed, the building was reduced to 2,000 square feet
and became a simple structure that would create excitement for that area.
Council Member Perkins suggested moving forward with the project as is.
It was moved by Mayor McCarthy and seconded by Council Member McCaughan to approach
the architect for a redesign and direct staff to contact the Federal Transit Agency to request an
extension. (Motion was later withdrawn.)
Mr. Vose suggested leaving the project on tract before it goes to bid and, during that time,
request staff to research the cost to redesign the project and whether the Federal funding source will
approve the delay.
Mr. Jarrett felt it would be better to stop the project today rather than incur additional
expenses and read a portion of a letter from the Federal Government which noted if the money is not
spent within the time period allotted that the City risks losing the funds. He stated staff will submit the
request for a design change to the FTA.
After explaining how the City was able to secure these funds, Mr. Caton highly recommended
holding to the present course to not jeopardize the funding.
Mayor McCarthy withdrew his motion and indicated he would meet with Mr. Jarrett and the
architect to discuss an alternative.
Council Minutes 6/13/00 -10-
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Mr. Jarrett mentioned artists were recently interviewed to provide designs to enhance the
building and it is staff's intent to include historical elements as part of this art.
FRONT YARD AREAS
Council Member McCaughan advised that the Council subcommittee met and discussed the
concept of the front yard area along with the Police Chief, Code Enforcement and Mr. Yoshiki from
the Planning Department and wanted to bring the issue back to the Council to direct staff to review
the definition of the front yard area. It was felt that everything from the front yard setback to the front
of the house would incur the same conditions as the front yard setback.
CANOPIES
Council Member McCaughan noted there is a proliferation of canopies in the front yard area
and along driveways and there is a concern from liability, fire and storage issues. He felt there should
be regulations to prohibit these structures in the front yard setback, front yard area, and along the
driveway.
GARAGE CONVERSIONS AND CARPORTS
Council Member McCaughan referred to complaints regarding carports as not a suitable
replacement for a garage conversion. The Council subcommittee felt carports no longer meet the
minimum City standard as a replacement for a garage and should be removed from the Code. He
noted this involves the legal conversion of a garage with the carport being the necessary garage space
to house the vehicle and felt if a garage is converted, another garage should replace it.
Council Member Winningham requested clarification of the front yard area, which would
house permanent or temporary canopies in an approved driveway in the front yard from the front of
the house to the street, noting canopy usage in back yards is not being defined right now even though
some are on driveways. He noted people have built carports with the understanding they would later
build a garage to replace the converted garage but do not follow through.
Mayor McCarthy expressed concern with visibility and the fact canopies are in areas that are in
the front y and or are visible, stating this does not look good and is appearing in many locations around
the City. He looked forward to the follow up on this issue.
It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Winningham,
and unanimously carried (4 - to send these three items, front yard areas, canopies and garage
conversions and carport, to the appropriate City departments, such as Planning, Police, etc.,
and to have them brought back in a timely manner as a proposal to the Council and to then be
sent to the Planning Commission.
Richard B. Pridham, 10402 Bellman Avenue, mentioned voicing complaints to staff regarding
the issue of garage conversions and mentioned several near his home that did not have sewer permits.
He stated he does not consider this an enhancement for the community.
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9 8
WARREN HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL FIELD LIGHTS
Council Member McCaughan referred to discussions at a recent meeting with the Downey
Unified School District regarding the potential of access to the ballfield to construct lights. He noted
$125,000 is already allocated in the budget for this project and proposed the City take advantage of
the offer to explore the idea. He suggested Mr. Caton and Mr. Jarrett explore the opportunity of a
joint use agreement, limiting the City's allocation at $250,000, and felt through the joint use
agreement, an eventual recapitalization of this expenditure could be accomplished.
It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Winningham,
and unanimously carried (4 - to potentially allocate $250,000 for a joint use agreement with the
Downey Unified School District to light the baseball fields at Warren High School.
Prior to the vote, Mayor McCarthy requested a list of expected benefits and potential liabilities
from staff.
Council Member Perkins suggested the joint use agreement be a strong agreement between the
City and School District. He mentioned there might be a facility at Apollo Park that could be utilized
for this purpose and would not require a joint use agreement, as the City controls the parks.
Diane Boggs, 10568 Chaney Avenue, reminded the citizens that public property is public
property and not private property. She noted Warren High School is public property that every citizen
owns. She felt the best benefit was to put in the lights to allow the use of the field by the kids and felt
the proposal should go forward.
Council Member Winningham felt if the City makes a financial investment at Warren High
School he wanted to be certain that the facility was available for the community to use and not only
used at the School District's convenience. He mentioned the relocation of the transit center from
Apollo Park will vacate some property that could facilitate a ball diamond.
DOWNEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT — PROGRAM FUNDING IN THE FISCAL
YEAR 2000 CITY BUDGET
Council Member McCaughan removed this item for discussion at a later date.
Council Member McCaughan complimented the Memorial Day service at the Downey
Cemetery, noting he and his family attended and all were impressed with the program.
Council Member Winningham offered best wishes for a speedy recovery to Lennie
Whittington who broke his hip and is at Downey Regional Medical Center recovering.
Council Member Winningham acknowledged this is the last meeting of Fire Chief Ron
Irwin, who is retiring, and thanked him for his community involvement and wished him well.
Council Member Perkins complimented the spirit and energy of crossing guard Rosella
McCray, who received an award earlier in the meeting. He also mentioned the efficiency of the
crossing guard on Imperial Highway near Imperial Elementary School.
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Council Member Perkins thanked the Downey Eagle for including an article on the household
hazardous waste round -up to be held at Downey High School on Saturday, June 17th, and
encouraged everyone to take advantage of this free service to dispose of these items in the proper
manner.
Council Member Perkins mentioned attending and being impressed with the American Legion
Memorial Day Service on Monday, May 29th, at the Downey Cemetery.
Mayor McCarthy acknowledged that June 14th is Flag Day and encouraged everyone to
display the American flag.
Mayor McCarthy mentioned a workshop on livable communities to be held on June 15th by
the Gateway Cities Council of Governments (COG) at the Gas Company Energy Resource Center.
Mayor McCarthy noted the last performances of the "King and I" will be this weekend and
urged everyone to take the time to attend.
Mayor McCarthy noted the Budget Hearing will be held at the June 27th Council
Meeting.
OTHER BUSINESS - Staff Members: None
ADJOURNMENT: 9:37 p . m.
The meeting was adjourned in memory of Timothy Edward Caton, brother of City
Manager Gerald Caton, and Mary Angela Buck, mother of Robert Rowe, Deputy Fire Marshal,
to 6:30 p. m., June 27, 2000, in the Council Chamber of Downey City Hall.
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Ju a ith E. McDonnell, City Clerk Keith McCarthy, Mayor
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