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Home My WebLink AboutMinutes-04-12-94-Regular Meeting MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APRIL 12, 1994 TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO. Presentations to Steve Cunningham for efforts in naming City's new Public Transit System, "DowneyLINK" 1 Certificate of Appointment ntm Gasdia, ,.,..� pp ent -Frank Gasdi Gol f Course Authority, District 3 (to be mailed) 1 Certificates of Appreciation to longtime Downey businesses that have served community 1 Res. #5781, finding City to be in conformance with Congestion Management Program (CMP) & adopting CMP local implementation report in accordance with California Government Code Section 65089 Adopted 2 Items Removed from Consent Calendar 2 Council Minutes: Adj. & Regular Mtgs., 3/22/94; Special Called Mtg., 3/29/94 Approved 3 Cash Contract #S.S. 452 - Miscellaneous repairs & ~- handicapped ramps: Approve plans & grant authority to advertise Approved 3 Warrants Issued: #74414 -75019 Approved 3 Unscheduled equipment purchase - AEC Call Sequencer to upgrade Fire Department Dispatch System Approved 3 Zone Change #94 -03 (9051 & 9063 Florence Ave.) : Request for change of zone from R -1 (Single Family Set hrg. for Residential) to R -3 (Multi-family Residential) 4/26/94 3 Zone Change #94 -04 (9117, 9121, 9125, 9131, 9191, 9201, 9215, 9227, 9245 Florence Ave., & 10035 Ha l edon Ave.) : Request for change of zone from R -1 (Single Family Residential) to R -3 -0 (Multi-family Set hrg. for Residential, Ownership) 4/26/94 3 Donation to Friends of Downey City Library of old Library Card Catalog, which is being relaced by online computer catalog system on 4/26/94 Approved 3 Res. #5782, appvg. appointment of Martin Susnir to Water Advisory Board, District 1 Adopted 3 Page 1 of 3 COUNCIL MINUTES, APRIL 12, 1994 TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED) SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO. Res. #5783, memorializing practice of reporting employee contribution payments to Public Employees' Retirement System, & intent to continue practice Adopted 3 Res. #5784, granting one -time payment to specified part -time employees & establishing bilingual pay bonus for all part -time employees Adopted 3 License agreement with Stonewood Center Mall for use of their property as a transfer point for the Fixed Route Transit System Approved 4 Rio Hondo Golf Course Easement for Reclaimed Water: Authorize City Manager to execute Agreement with Central Basin Municipal Water District for easement across Rio Hondo Golf Course, & authorize staff to invoice Water District for reimbursable expenses Approved 4_ Cash Contract #591, Civic Center Water Well #11: Accept improvements completed, approve additive P bid items, and assess liquidated damages to contractor Approved 4 Budget adjustments to add sufficient funds in appropriate accounts to cover labor agreements with Police employees, Fire employees & non -sworn employees Approved 5 Discussion & possible change of administrative policy prohibiting overnight camping in City Parks: Direct staff to arrange overnight camping inside { Apollo Park facilities for Scout Troop #441 on weekend of 4/29/94 Approved 6 Cn. Lawrence re promotion of new "DowneyLINK" transit system by businesses along routes 6 Cn. Lawrence re attendance at recent energy seminar where alternative fuel vehicles & clean fuels were discussed 6 Cn. Lawrence advised public that Edison Co. is issuing $50 bonds for turning in spare working refrigerators 6 Cn. Lawrence commended staff for cost savings resulting from in -house printing of "The Communicator" 6 McCaughan noted community center issue would scussed at next meeting with a f u l l Council 6 of 3 COUNCIL MINUTES, APRIL 12, 1994 TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED) SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO. Cn. McCaughan inquired into plans for eradication of weeds on City - maintained property during lean budgetary times 7 Cn. McCaughan asked about status of Code Enforcement Transition Program 7 ** Mayor Pro Tem Riley re dust & debris from construction Staff to contact at Rancho Los Amigos Medical Center bothering Rancho neighboring residents 7 Johnette Stickel complimented Council Members on constructive time spent at City Hall ; commended selection of Golf Course developer through open bidding process; discussed recent Brown Act revisions; listed various facilities available for youth, noting need for senior citizens center 7- Al Orlando spoke in favor of senior center 7 Lucille Wyatt requested new senior center 7 Fred James suggested recreational amenities be included in new Downey senior citizen center 7 Bob Feliciano invited public to Swim Meet Championships being held this weekend at community pool 7 Terry Lambros noted chairing Citizens for Downey subcommittee re need for community /senior /youth center, citing her recommendation for a senior citizen facility 7 Lennie Whittington re recent legislation passed on Brown Act; inconvenience recently experienced by public due to closure of west City Hall parking lot; commended rapid work done by contractor handling curb & gutter repairs in his area 7 Mr. Caton commended Fire Dept. for efforts in extricating man from mixing machine into which he had fallen during industrial accident 8 Mr. Caton re Cn. Boggs & staff member in Washington, D.C. requesting appropriation of Federal funds for L.A. County Drainage Alliance (LACDA) project 8 Mr. Caton mentioned being interviewed by British Broad- casting Company re McDonald's issue Meeting adjourned to 6:30 p.m., Ap r i l 26, 1994 8 Page 3 of 3 * *Cn. McCaughan reiterated request for , 7 Code of Conduct at City Parks. C J MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APRIL 12, 1994 The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:33 p.m., April 12, 1994, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Pro Tem Barbara J. Riley presiding. PRESENT: Council Members: Barbara J. Riley Mayor Pro Tem --� Gary P. McCaughan, M.D. Joyce L. Lawrence ABSENT: Robert S. Brazelton Mayor (Excused) Diane P. Boggs (Excused) ALSO PRESENT: Gerald M. Caton, City Manager Peter M. Thorson, City Attorney Judith McDonnell, City Clerk Lee Powell, Assistant City Manager Greg Caldwell, Police Chief Ron Irwin, Fire Chief Jim Jarrett, Director of Community Services Art Rangel, Director of Econ. & Community Development Richard Redmayne, Director of Public Works Lowell Williams, Director of Finance Robert Brace, City Engineer Victoria Jenkins, City Librarian Ron Yoshiki, Asst. Comm. Dev. Director /City Planner Bill Doebler, Principal Planner Cindi Lee, Executive Secretary PRESENTATIONS Mayor Pro Tem Riley presented to Mr. Steve Cunningham for his efforts in naming the City of Downey's new Public Transit System, ' DowneyLINK," a Certificate of Appreciation, a $100 gift certificate to Stonewood Center Mall, a special pass to ride DowneyLINK for one year at no cost, and an invitation to the DowneyLINK ribbon - cutting ceremony on Saturday, April 16, 1994, at Stonewood Center Mall. Mr. Frank Gasdia w i l l be mailed his Certificate of Reappointment to the Golf Course Authority, District 3, as he was unable to attend this Council meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Riley presented Certificates of Appreciation to representatives of the following longtime Downey businesses that have served the community: Posey's Patio & Unfinished Furniture, Beach Grocery Company, ranata's Italian V i l l a , and Edon Printing Company. The businesses of Regent 3nuf actu ri ng, Bradley Manufacturing, and Johnnie's Maytag Home Appliance Ater were also acknowledged. ua w. '1 Minutes 4/12/94 -1- i 1.L098 HEARINGS Mayor Pro Tem Riley opened the public hearing on CITY CONFORMANCE WITH THE 1993 CONGESTION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM (CMP). Ms. McDonnell affirmed receipt of the proof of publication, which was so ordered to receive and file. Mr. Rangel sumarized the staff report, explaining in June, 1990, California voters approved Proposition 111 which allows for a portion of gas sales taxes to be returned to local jurisdictions to use for transportation improvements. The City will receive approximately $500,000 in this gas tax money; however, the legislation requires adoption of the Congestion Management Program standards as a prerequisite to receiving the funds. There are four elements involving the implementation of the 1993 CMP, and Council's action adopting the self - certification compliance Resolution will allow the City to receive its allocated gas tax monies. No correspondence had been received on this matter. P As there was no one wishing to speak regarding the City's conformance with the 1993 Congestion Management Program, it was moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member McCaughan, and so ordered to close the public hearing. RESOLUTION NO. 5781 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DORY FINDING THE CITY TO BE IN CONFORMANCE WITH THE CONGESTION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM (CMP) AND ADOPTING THE CMP LOCAL IMPLEMENTATION REPORT IN ACCORDANCE WITH CAL I FORN I A GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 65089 The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member McCaughan, and unanimously carried by the Members present to waive further reading and adopt. Prior to the foregoing vote, g g e, Council Member McCaughan c l a r i f i e d the elements discussed involve continued conformance with the CMP, including commitment to implement the Countywide Deficiency Plan by recording new development t acts vi t and submission on of a list st of regional tr n P y activity, a sportati on improvements in the near future. Responding to Council Member McCaughan's questions regarding credits developed by the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA), Mr. Rangel explained the different types of projects in Downey that would qualify for these credits, i.e, the new Citywide transit system, mixed -use developments, etc. CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMtS FOR REMOVAL Council Member McCaughan requested removal from the Consent Calendar of Agenda VI-E-4, APPROPRIATIONS TO ADD SUFFICIENT FUNDS TO COVER LABOR AGREEMENTS. Council Minutes 4/12/94 -2- c 3 CONSENT CALENDAR It was moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member McCaughan, and unanimously carried by the Members present to waive further reading of the Resolutions and approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar as recommended: COUNCIL MINUTES: ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETINGS - MARCH 22, 1994; SPECIAL CALLED MEETING - MARCH 29, 1994: Approve. CASH CONTRACT NO. S.S. 452 - MISCELLANEOUS REPAIRS AND HANDICAPPED RAMPS - --� Approve plans and specifications and grant authority to advertise: Approve. WARRANTS ISSUED: N0. 74414 - 75019, $1,914,941.41: Approve. UNSCHEDULED EQUIPMENT PURCHASE OF AEC CALL SEQUENCER to upgrade the Fire Department Dispatch system, providing 25% faster processing of emergency calls: Approve. ZONE CHANGE NO. 94 -03, 9051 AND 9063 FLORENCE AVENUE (APPLICANT, RONALD KOLAR - REQUEST FOR ZONE CHANGE FROM R -1 (SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) TO R -3 (MULTI- FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) : Set hearing for 7:30 p.m., April 26, 1994, in the Downey City Council Chamber, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California. ZONE CHANGE NO. 94-04, 9117, 9121, 9125, 9131, 9191, 9201, 9215, 9227, 9245 FLORENCE AVENUE AND 10035 HALEDON AVENUE (APPLICANT, TONY UVA) - REQUEST FOR ZONE CHANGE FROM R1- 10,000 (SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) TO R -3 -0 (MULTI- FAMILY RESIDENTIAL, OWNERSHIP) : Set hearing for 7:30 p.m., April 26, 1994 in the Downey City Council Chamber, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California. DONATION TO FRIENDS OF THE DOWNEY CITY LIBRARY OF THE OLD LIBRARY CARD CATALOG, which is being replaced with a new online computer catalog system scheduled for public debut on April 26, 1994: Approve. RESOLUTION NO. 5782 (ADOPT) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF MARTIN SUSN I R AS A MEMBER OF THE WATER ADVISORY BOARD FOR COU N C I L MAN I C DISTRICT ONE RESOLUTION NO. 5783 (ADOPT) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY MEMORIALIZING THE PRACTICE OF REPORTING EMPLOYEE CONTRIBUTION PAYMENTS TO THE PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM, AND ITS INTENT TO CONTINUE THE PRACTICE RESOLUTION NO. 5784 (ADOPT) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY GRANTING A ONE-TIME PAYMENT TO SPECIFIED PART -TIME EMPLOYEES AND ESTABLISHING A BILINGUAL PAY BONUS FOR ALL PART -TIME EMPLOYEES 1 Minutes 4/12/94 -3- s , ORDINANCES NOT SET FORTH ABOVE: None . RESOLUTIONS NOT SET FORTH ABOVE: None. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS STONEWOOD FIXED ROUTE TRANSIT TRANSFER POINT AGREEMENT Mr. Jarrett summarized the staff report, noting the agreement will allow the City's Fixed Route Transit System buses to use Stonewood property as a transfer point, and also authorizes installation of a bus stop and amenities at the City's expense. Stonewood Center will maintain the amenities and landscaping at its expense, including the removal of trash and related janitorial services. It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Lawrence, and unanimously carried by the Members present to approve the license agreement with Stonewood Center Mall for use of their property as a transfer point for the Fixed Route Transit System. RIO HONDO GOLF COURSE EASEMENT FOR RECLAIMED WATER Mr. Jarrett summarized the staff report, e x p l a i n i n g the Golf Course remodeling project includes construction of a twelve inch reclaimed water main across the site, servicing two of the four new lakes. A pumping system w i l l withdraw reclaimed water from the lakes to irrigate the tees, fairways and 4, rough throughout the site. As compensation for granting an easement across the Golf Course, the Central Basin Municipal Water District w i l l reimburse the City for expenses related to engineering, construction and other project costs incurred, for an estimated $100,000. It was moved by Council Member Lawrence, seconded by Council Member McCaughan, and unanimously approved by the Members present to Authorize the City Manager to execute the Reclaimed Water Line Agreement with the Central y 9 Basin Municipal Water District for an easement across the Rio Hondo Golf Course, and authorize staff to invoice the Central Basin Municipal Water District to collect reimbursable expenses incurred by the City. CASH CONTRACT NO. 591, CIVIC CENTER WATER WELL NO. 11 Mr. Redmayne summarized the staff report, outlining several unknowns encountered during the d r i l l i n g of the Civic Center water well, resulting in additional work at a total cost adjustment increase of $31,021.13. However, project delays on the part of the contractor resulted in three days of liquidated damages of $3,000, which should be assessed to the contractor. He mentioned construction of the well housing will begin in early summer. Council Member McCaughan questioned the cost of Phase I I of the project involving the well house and equipment, and was informed the estimated expense for this Phase is $400,000-'$500,000. It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded by Council Member Lawrence, and unanimously carried by the Members present to accept the improvements completed, approve additive bid items in the amount of $31,021.13, and assess liquidated damages in the amount of $3,000. Council Minutes 4/12/94 -4- C301 OTHER BUSINESS - CONSENT CALENDAR: Items Removed by Council Approval: APPROPRIATIONS TO ADD SUFFICIENT FUNDS TO COVER LABOR AGREEMENTS Council Member McCaughan questioned whether these funds were unallocated budget amounts, and was informed by Mr. Powell the appropriations � are from unallocated General Fund monies and w i l l not affect reserve accounts. It was moved by Council Member McCaughan, seconded b y Council Member Lawrence, and unanimously carried by the Members present to approve the following appropriations: $519,841 - PP 9 Police ce emp l oyees , salaries ar i es and benefits, Program 2120, $303,336 - Fire employees, salaries and benefits, Program 2620• and $205,595 - Non -sworn g ' employees, Vacation account, 61 -1710 -080. OTHER BUSINESS - COUNCIL MEMBERS: DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE CHANGE OF ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY PROHIBITING OVERNIGHT CAMPING IN CITY PARKS Council Member Lawrence noted she requested review of the City's of i c policy which prohibits overnight camping in City parks based upon a recent request b Scout Troop No. 441 to q by p into camp at Apollo Park as part of their 50th anniversary celebration. Taking into cons i derat i on the safety concerns of staff, she hoped that input received at this meeting would lead to a ossi bl a solution ' P to the Scout Troop's s request. Mr. Fred Davidson, President, Old River Mens Club, former member of Scout Troop No. 441 since 1965, discussed the ast history and ' p y a d civic contributions made by this Troop in the last 50 years. On the weekend of April 29th, a celebration event is being planned for the Scout Troop's 50th anniversary at Apollo Park, including an overnight y g ght camping experience. Staff has indicated that overnight camping in parks is against the City's policy. He explained the detailed preparation � • plans for this event include security, supervision, and the presence of emergency medical technicians. Mr. Ernie Wisdom, 8713 Meadow Road, Frontier District Chairman for Scouting, discussed various Downey civic projects done by scouting troops s over P the last decades, including the Adopt -A- Highway clean-up program. He mentioned neighboring city parks in which the scouts have camped, and offered to provide l i a b i l i t y insurance and other safety precautions for camping at Apollo Park. I I Mr. Caton expressed full support of the scouting program, but voiced concern over the safety issues that could result from changing the City policy to allow indiscriminate camping in parks. Chief Caldwell shared Mr. Caton's concerns about different organizations using the parks that may not be as trustworthy as the Scouts, which could place an excessive demand on Police services. Mayor Pro Tem Riley asked Mr. Davidson if the Scouts would be willing to camp inside the park facility. Council Minutes 4/12/94 -5- 77ff. i'rll+ �7 Mr. Davidson indicated there would not be a problem with camping inside the hall and adjacent patio area, as long as restrooms were available. Council Member Lawrence agreed with the compromise of camping within the facility, and recommended the Recreation and Community Services Commission review the City's overall policy prohibiting overnight camping in City parks. Council Member McCaughan asked about the existence of any case law regarding problems with overnight camping in parks. Mr. Thorson responded that several cities, including Santa Monica and Santa Ana, have been involved with extensive litigation concerning t h i s issue. However, the courts have allowed cities to enforce reasonable regulations on overnight camping. Discussion ensued regarding liabilities, protection of neighborhoods, and the loss of park use because of potential security problems of overnight camping. Mr. Caton suggested that staff arrange for Troop No. 441 to camp inside the Apollo Park facilities, then have the Recreation and Community Services Commission review the City's overall policy prohibiting such camping, and -. return its recommendations to Council. With the concurrence of Council, Mayor Pro Tem Riley directed staff to work out the details with Scout Troop No. 441 regarding indoor camping at Apollo Park on the weekend of April 29, 1994. Council Member Lawrence requested staff notify the Scouts when the overnight camping policy will be considered before the Recreation and Community Services Commission. Council Member Lawrence discussed the new "DowneyLINK' transit system, noting that BRAID has sent letters and posters to businesses along the transit routes to promote ridership. Council Member Lawrence noted her recent attendance at a seminar where Ms. Hazel O'Leary, Secretary of Energy, spoke regarding the future of energy technology, clean transportation fuels, and alternative fuel vehicles. She expressed hope that alternative fuel vehicles would be considered for Downey's p p y transit system in the future. She noted Downey Ford is the service provider for the new electric car produced by Ford, who will be introducing other alternative fuel vehicles in the near future. Council Member Lawrence advised the public they can turn in their spare working refrigerators to the Edison Company and receive a $50 bond. Council Member Lawrence referenced a memo from Assistant to the City Manager, June Yotsuya, regarding cost savings resulting from in -house printing of The Communicator.' Council Member McCaughan clarified that consideration of the community center issue would be continued to the next meeting at the request of the absent Council Members so they can participate in the discussion on this matter. Council Minutes 4/12/94 -6- 4 : sj Council Member McCaughan inquired about plans to eradicate weeds and other growth from City maintained areas, such as side roads and tree wells, during these lean budgetary times. ' Council Member McCaughan inquired regarding the status of the Code Enforcement Transition Program. Council Member McCaughan reiterated his request for a Code of Conduct parks. q ct at Mayor Pro Tem Riley entioned receiving complaints y g ompla�nts from residents near Rancho Los Amigos Medical Center, where construction debris and dust ' st � s adversely affectig their homes. She asked that staff contact Rancho in an ' } effort to expedite the work involved. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Ms. Johnette Stickel, 8731 McCallum St., complimented Council Members on their constructive time spent at City Hall, and commended selection of the Golf developer through the open bidding ' • _ P g p dd ng process. She discussed recent legislation concerning the Brown Act, clarifying that subcommittee meetings 9 are open to the public, and suggested the City Attorney's analysis of the - revisions be published in the local newspaper. She list facilities listed various face l � t� available for youth and their activities, citing the need for a senior center to serve Downey's senior citizens. Mr. Al Orlando, 8536 Ravi l 1 er Dr., spoke in favor of a senior citizen center being constructed at the old courthouse site at La Reina Avenue and Third Street, and indicated the center could be rented out at times to generate revenue for the City. Ms. Lucille Wyatt, 7903 Second St., expressed her appreciation for the tables used at Apor l o Park and requested a new senior center facility. Mr. Fred James, 9360 Samol i ne St., discussed his visit to the Whittier Senior Center, and suggested recreational amenities, such as a ool , be part P P of a Downey senior center. r - • Mr. Bob Feliciano, 9242 Muller St., representing the Downey Aquatics Club, i nvi ted Council and the public to attend a U.S.S. Long Course Swim Meet Championships this weekend held at the Downey community pool. Ms. Terry Lambros, 9715 Brookshire Ave., mentioned she was asked b y the Citizens for Downey organization to chair a subcommittee on Downey's need for a community center /senior citizens center /youth center, and based on the , subcommittee's review, she will ask the Citizens for Down t - - y to support a senior citizens facility. She further offered her services to the Council subcommittee if they need information or assistance. Mr. Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee St., cited recent legislation passed in March affecting the Brown Act, which he will report on to the full Council. He mentioned the inconvenience recently experienced by the public during the closure of City Hall's west parking lot on a Friday prepare to are for P a youth activity, and complimented the rapid work done by the contractor handling curb and sidewalks repairs in his area. Council Minutes 4/12/94 -7- i Mr. Caton concurred that the youth activity should have been scheduled for a Friday when City Hall is closed. OTHER BUSINESS: Staff Members Mr. Caton commended the Fire Department for its efforts today in extricating a man from a mixing machine into which he had fallen during an industrial accident. Chief Irwin also complimented the Fire Department, noting the extrication equipment recently approved by Council was of great assistance in removing the gentlemen from the machinery. Mr. Caton explained that Council Member Boggs and the Assistant to the City Manager are in Washington, D.C., requesting appropriation of Federal Government funds for the Los Angeles County Drainage Alliance (LACDA) project regarding to obtain the critical f l oop l ai n issue. Mr. Caton mentioned being interviewed by the British Broadcasting Company (BBC) for an item in the London Times" regarding the McDonald's issue. ADJOURNMENT: 8:55 p.m. The meeting was adjourned to 6:30 p.m., April 26, 1994, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall. 1111 (7 c: r di th E. McDonne ,City C erk arbara J. Ri .. • Mayor ro Tem Council Minutes 4/12/94 -8-