HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-09-24-91-Regular Meeting MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
SEPTEMBER 24, 1991
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Public hearing on Appeal, Vesting Tentative Parcel
Map #50450, Zone Variance #91 -63, & Conditional Use
Permit #91 -64 (10331 A -H Downey Ave.) Cont. to 10/22/91 1
Res. #5491 denying Appeal, Zone Variance #91 -75
(8423 Priscilla St.) Adopted 2
Public hearing on Vacation #163, Intent to Vacate
Alley easterly from Rives Ave. southerly of
Telegraph Rd. Cont. to 10/8/91 3
Public hearing on Appeal, Zone Variance #91 -73
(10230 La Reina Ave.) Cont. to 10/8/91 5
Lary Marks re illegally parked trailers next to
residential area 5
Linda Cherney re need for additional crossing guard
at Paramount Blvd. & Imperial Hwy. 5
Judy H i l l i a r d re 30 day trial period for crossing
guard at Paramount Blvd. & Imperial Hwy. 5
Pamela Box re consideration of Imperial Elementary
School in discussions regarding crossing guard placement 5
Items Removed from the Consent Calendar 6
Minutes: Adjourned Regular Meetings,
September 3, 1991, September 5, 1991,
September 10, 1991; Regular September 10, 1991 Approved 6
Cash Contract #S.S. 429 - traffic signal coordination
various locations: Award contract to C.T. & F., Inc. Approved 6
Warrants issued: #39441 -39696 Approved 6
Appropriation adjustments for fiscal year 1991 -92 Approved 6
Request for additional Crossing Guard: Authorize -
appropriation of $869.13 to fund study to determine
need for additional crossing guard; staff to meet with
District officials to establish priority for existing
14 crossing guard positions & examine alternative
funding sources for additional crossing guards Approved 6
Refuse Collection Services - 90 day extension of
contract with Calsan, Inc. Approved 6
Page 1of3
COUNCIL MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 24, 1991
TABLE OF ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION
PAGE NC
Library equipment purchase from contributed funds by
John & Sharon Mitchell Memorial Fund & Friends of
Downey City Library for literacy program Approved 7
Ordinance amending Cable Television Franchise ranted
to Continental g
ental Ca blevision Introduced 7 r-1
Urgency Ordinance re interim Flood plain Management
Standards Cont. to 9/25/91 7
Formation of Committee to review potentially modified Mayor Hay den & Cn.
councilmanic boundaries due to census data Boggs on subcommittee 7
Approval of funding support for City's 35th
Anniversary Activities by Second Century Foundation Cont. to 9/25/91 8
Cash Contract #411 - Street improvements along
Bellflower Blvd.: Award contract to DBL Construction
Corporation contingent on LACTC concurrence Approved 9
Cash Contract #584 - Firestone Blvd. & Burns Ave.
Water Mains: Reject all bids & grant authority to
readvertise Approved 9
Cash Contract #585A - Downey Courthouse Demolition:
Reject all bids & grant authority to readvertise Approved 10
Exchange of Proposition A funds with Santa Fe Springs Cont. to 9/25/91 10
Request to provide needed systems management services
required by Police Department Computer Program:
Authorize staff to prepare request for proposals Approved 11
Acceptance of donation from James L. Stamps Foundation
& authorize purchase of pipe organ for Downey Theatre Approved 12
Resolution re new class specifications and salary
ranges for Assistant Superintendent of Physical
Services & Housing Planner Cont. to 9/25/91 12
Cn. Boggs re complaints about_ consa stent Si gn- . Code -
enforcement on Firestone Blvd. 12
Cn. Boggs re excessive signage at "Casa Leon" furniture
store on Firestone Blvd. 12
Cn. Boggs re letter from Chamber of Commerce requesting
authorization to sell alcoholic beverages at Downey To be p laced on
• Theatre future agenda 12
Page 2 of 3
COUNCIL MINUTES, SEPTEMBER 24, 1991
TABLE OF ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION
PAGE NO
Cn. Brazelton re Ordinance to address amortization
period for signs covered by Zone Exception cases, etc.
12
Mayor Hayden re report on reasoning behind offering
�—, density bonus on large developments 12
Meeting adjourned to 4 :30 p.m., September 25, 1991
to complete discussion of items continued from this
agenda 13
Page 3 of 3
9 3 39 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
SEPTEMBER 24, 1991
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7 :35 p.m.,
September 24, 1991, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor
Barbara J. Hayden presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Barbara J. Hayden Mayor
Diane P. Boggs Mayor Pro Tem
Robert S. Brazelton
ABSENT: Robert G. Cormack (excused)
Richard D. Carter (excused)
ALSO PRESENT: Gerald Caton, City Manager
Peter Thorson, City Attorney
Judith McDonnell, City Clerk
Ken Farfsing, Assistant City Manager
Lee Powell, Assistant City Manager
Jim Jarrett, Director of Community Services
Clayton Mayes, Police Chief
Art Rangel, Director of Community Development
Richard Redmayne, Acting Director of Public Works
Lowell W i l l i a m s , Director of Finance
Dennis Chelstrom, Police Captain
Victoria Jenkins, City Librarian
William Makshanoff, Building Official
Charles Baptista, Police Lieutenant
Franklin DeGroot, Principal Planner
Dennis Groat, Fire Marshall
Ed Velasco, Housing Manager
Cindi Apidgian, Executive Secretary
PRESENTATIONS: None.
HEARINGS
Mayor Hayden opened the public hearing on. APPEAL, VESTING TENTATIVE PARCEL
NAP NO. 50450, ZONE VARIANCE NO. 91 -63, AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 91 -64
FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 10331 A -H DOWNEY AVENUE.
Per the request of the applicant and concurrence of staff, it was moved by
Council Member Brazelton, seconded by Council Member Boggs, and so ordered to
continue the hearing to 7:30 p.m., October 22, 1991 in the Downey City Council
Chamber.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -1-
9340
Mayor Hayden opened the public hearing on APPEAL, ZONE VARIANCE NO. 91 -75
FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 8423 PRISCILLA STREET.
Mr. Rangel summarized the staff report, noting this matter was brought to
the City's attention as a Code Enforcement problem regarding a garage converted
into a bedroom. He discussed various options available to the applicant and
narrated a brief slide presentation depicting a vicinity map, site and floor
plans, and photographs of the subject and surrounding area.
Ms. McDonnell affirmed the proof of publication. It was moved by Council
Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member Brazelton, and so ordered to receive
and file.
No correspondence was received on this matter.
Mayor Hayden asked the applicant to come forward and present her case.
Ms. Yolanda Vasquez DeLeon, 8423 Priscilla St., spoke through her
interpretor, Ms. Bertha Jobbagy, 1823 Molokai St., West Covina. She mentioned
that her neighbors did not disapprove of her converted garage. In discussing
the reasons why she could not modify her plans as suggested by the Planning
Division, she cited costs as a major factor. Other houses in her area were
enjoying the privilege of converted garages; she felt singled out in her
neighborhood, possibly because of her ethnic background. Past permits on her
house were distributed via the City Clerk to the Council.
There was no one to speak in favor or opposition.
It was moved by Council Member Brazelton, seconded by Council Member
Boggs, and unanimously carried by the Members present to close the public
hearing.
RESOLUTION NO. 5491
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DENYING ZONE VARIANCE NO. 91 -75 FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT
8423 PRISCILLA STREET
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member
Boggs, seconded by Council Member Brazelton, and carried by unanimous vote of
the Members present to waive further reading and adopt.
Prior to the foregoing vote, Council Member Boggs expressed concern
regarding any case that may set a precedent in allowing converted garages. She
requested proactive Code Enforcement in checking others in the area for the
same problem and noted that if this house was sold in this condition to the
applicant, then the Board of Realtors should be contacted. She assured Ms.
Deleon there would be no prejudice in the decision made tonight on her
property.
Council Member Brazelton concurred, noting that Ms. DeLeon may have a
complaint against the prior owner. He suggested the applicant revert back to a
one -car garage or some other alternative suggested by staff.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -2-
0:3 41
Mayor Hayden indicated there were insufficient findings of fact in this
case to grant a variance.
Mayor Hayden opened the public hearing on VACATION NO. 163, INTENT TO
VACATE ALLEY EASTERLY FROM RIVES AVENUE SOUTHERLY OF TELEGRAPH ROAD.
Ms. McDonnell affirmed the proof of publication which was received and
filed.
Mayor Hayden noted a request from Council Member Cormack that this item be
continued to the meeting of October 8, 1991.
It was moved by Council Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member
Brazelton, and unanimously carried by the Members present to continue the
public hearing on Alley Vacation No. 163 to 7:30 p.m., October 8, 1991 in the
Downey City Council Chamber.
Mayor Hayden opened the public hearing on APPEAL, ZONE VARIANCE NO. 91 -73
FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 10230 LA REINA AVENUE.
Ms. McDonnell affirmed the proof of publication which was received and
filed.
Mr. Rangel summarized the staff report, a request to allow increased
density on property zoned R -3 (high density residential). He discussed
increased traffic and parking problems that will result from the increased
density and narrated a brief slide presentation of the subject and surrounding
areas.
Discussion ensued regarding the possibility of reducing the size of the
units, but staff noted this would not solve the high density land problem. In
9 Y P
response to questions, Mr. Rangel noted the parking requirement has been met
for this project.
There was no correspondence received on this matter.
Mayor Hayden requested the applicant/appellant come forward and present
his case.
Mr. Angelo Picarelli, 9311 Rives Ave., noted he is part owner of the
subject property; Mr. Ralph Granada, 9305 Rives Ave., is also part owner. In
addressing the density issue, he indicated his property is less than 1% below
the required land area. He narrated a slide presentation depicting his
property and surrounding area, and the proposed plans. At his request, the
City Clerk distributed copies of an outline for the remaining presentation.
Mr. Picarelli discussed the findings that have been met in his Zone Variance
and cited similar properties in the area that have been developed with less
square footage than is required. When he contacted the City's Traffic
Division, he learned that La Reina Avenue is an extra wide street. According
to staff, there have been no parking problems in this area. Also, the General
Plan designates R -3 zoning for this area in the future.
There being no one else to speak in favor of the Appeal, Mayor Hayden
if Pp y
asked f there was anyone present to speak in opposition.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -3-
9 3 2
Ms. Ellen Swann, 10224 La Reina Ave., expressed opposition to the proposed
development based on the increased density. She commented on the parking and
noise problem and lack of privacy at her home should the project be approved.
Mr. Guy Sterner, 10303 Downey Ave., objected to the two -story units on the
basis that the density requirement has not been met. He distributed
photographs via the City Clerk depicting dense foilage, a five foot wall, and
multiple roof-mounted air conditioner units. I f the Appeal is granted,
Mr. Sterner requested the foilage remain, the wall height be increased up to
seven feet to insure privacy, and the air conditioning units be placed on
ground level to alleviate noise problems. He mentioned that a parking problem
does exist since guest parking spaces are never used.
Ms. Myrtle Risley, 7938 Phlox St., stated that employees from a new multi-
story office building in her area often take outside breaks on the upper levels
which invade her privacy at home.
Ms. Vivian Gilbert, 10231 La Reina Ave., noted the architecture of the
proposed building does not blend in with the neighborhood style and said the
parking and traffic problems created by the new structure would be terrible.
There being no one else to speak in opposition, Mayor Hayden asked the
applicant /appellant if he wished to speak in rebuttal.
Mr. Picarelli discussed the enforced City regulations regarding noise,
traffic, and aesthetics which apply to all developments.
Mayor Hayden questioned whether windows could be placed differently so
neighbors can maintain their privacy.
Mr. Picarrrel l i stated that he would work with Planning Division on the
window placement to insure no invasion of privacy.
It was moved by Council Member Brazelton, seconded by Council Member
Boggs, and so ordered to close the public hearing. (See later motion to re-
open the hearing and continue.)
e-s RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DENYING THE APPEAL OF ZONE VARIANCE NO. 91 -73, A
REQUEST TO ALLOW INCREASED DENSITY AND PERMIT AN
ADDITIONAL UNIT ON PROPERTY LOCATED AT
10230 LA RE I NA AVENUE, ZONED R-3
The Resolution was read by title only.
In response to a question from Council Member Boggs regarding the
requirement for right of way dedication, Mr. Thorson explained that Section
9114.10 of the Downey Municipal Code would not apply in this case since the
applicant`s land is in excess of 6,000 square feet.
Council Member Boggs noted this property owner could legally construct
four units if he had an additional 60 square feet of land.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -4-
9 43
Council Member Brazelton questioned the similarity of the Zone Variances
cited by the applicant and was informed by staff that the cases would have to
be reviewed. He expressed hesitance in approving this Appeal, as it may set a
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precedent for other owners to increase density on their property in this area
which would perpetuate parking and traffic problems.
Mayor Hayden mentioned that single family residential units with multiple
e
family members who each drive f •
y o eac rive a car would also generate parking and traffic
problems. Since the Resolution requires three affirmative votes for adoption
and it appears there may be a no action vote, Mayor Hayden suggested the matter
be continued to October 8, 1991.
It was moved by Council Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member
Brazelton, and so ordered to re-open the public hearing.
Pe Pu 9 i
....It was moved by Council- Member. Boggs,- seconded by Council Member
Brazelton, and unanimously carried by the Members present to continue the
public hearing to 7:30 p.m., October 8, 1991 in the Downey City Council
Chamber.
The meeting recessed at 8 :51 p.m. and reconvened at 9:00 p.m.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Lary Marks, 7808 Borson St., distributed photographs and requested
Council action on illegally parked trailers on a lot next to residential
property.
Mayor Hayden directed the matter to the Planning and Code Enforcement
Divisions and requested a report be returned.
Ms. Linda Cherney, 7945 Comolette Ave., requested an additional crossing
guard at Paramount Boulevard and Imperial Highway.
Ms. Judy Hilliard, 7834 Dal en St., spoke regarding high hi h volume of .
traffic at the intersection of Paramount Boulevard and Imperial Highway and
requested an additional crossing guard at this site for a 30 day trial period.
Mayor Hayden referred
y y Ms. Cherney and Ms. Hilliard to the Police
Department regarding this matter.
Council Member Boggs mentioned she had discussed the subject of changing
the location of crossing guards with Stan Hanstad of the Downey Unified School
District, and indicated there will be a joint meeting between the City and
School District regarding changing crossing guard locations throughout the City
as affected by recent modifications in district boundaries. She requested
these comments from the parents be brought to this meeting.
Mayor Hayden concurred, and requested coordination through the Police
Department.
Ms. Pamela Box, 7926 E. 4th Place, Principal of Imperial Elementary
School, cited an incident where a child ran across the street on a red light
and requested their school be considered in the crossing guard placement
discussion.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -5-
,
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR 3 ,
Mayor Hayden requested AGENDA ITEM VI -C -3, CASH CONTRACT NO. 584 -
FIRESTONE BOULEVARD AND BURNS AVENUE WATER MAINS, be removed from the agenda.
Council Member Boggs requested AGENDA ITEM VI -C -1, CASH CONTRACT NO. S.S.
411 - STREET IMPROVEMENTS, BELLFLOWER BOULEVARD, FOSTER ROAD TO IMPERIAL
HIGHWAY; AGENDA ITEM VI -E -2, EXCHANGE OF PROPOSITION A FUNDS WITH CITY OF SANTA
FE SPRINGS; AGENDA ITEM VI -E -4, REQUEST TO PROVIDE SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT SERVICES
b6"fr
FOR POLICE COMPUTER PROGRAM; AGENDA ITEM VI -E -7, ACCEPTANCE OF DONATION FOR .4.,o
JP
PURCHASE OF PIPE ORGAN FOR THE DOWNEY THEATRE; and AGENDA ITEM VI-F-1, NEW
CLASS SPECIFICATIONS AND SALARY RANGES FOR ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF PHYSICAL
SERVICES AND HOUSING PLANNER be removed from the Consent Calendar.
Mr. Brian Rallonza, 10709 Lesterford Ave., requested AGENDA ITEM VI -C -4,
CASH CONTRACT NO. 585A - DEMOLITION OF DOWNEY MUNICIPAL COURTHOUSE, be removed / / /
r the Consent Calendar.
from t e Conse t endar. �
Ms. Joyce Lawrence, 9627 Cheddar St., requested she be allowed to speak on
Agenda Items VI -C -1 (Cash Contract #S.S. 411) and VI -E -2 (Exchange of
Proposition A funds) which have already been removed from the Consent Calendar
by Council Member Boggs.
Council Member Boggs noted that Mr. Lennie Whittington had requested he be
99 9 q
allowed to speak on Agenda Item VI -E -7 (Donation for Pipe Organ) which she
already requested be removed from the Consent Calendar.
CONSENT CALENDAR
I t was moved by Council Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member Brazelton
and unanimously carried to waive further reading of the Resolutions and approve
the remainder of the Consent Calendar, as recommended:
ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETINGS, SEPTEMBER 3, 1991, SEPTEMBER 5, 1991,
SEPTEMBER 10, 1991; REGULAR MEETING, SEPTEMBER 10, 1991: Approve.
CASH CONTRACT NO. S.S. 429 - TRAFFIC SIGNAL COORDINATION, VARIOUS
LOCATIONS: AWARD CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT totalling $325,040 to C.T. & F., Inc.,
r--. contingent upon the Los Angeles County Transportation Commission's concurrence
and execution of funding agreement: Approve.
WARRANTS ISSUED: 139441 - #39696, $674,520.43: Approve.
APPROPRIATION ADJUSTMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 1991 -92: Approve.
REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL CROSSING GUARD: Authorize expenditure of $869.13 to
fund study to determine need for additional crossing guard which has been
requested by Downey Unified School District, and direct staff to meet with
School District representatives to establish a priority for the existing 14
crossing guard positions and to examine alternative funding sources should
additional crossing guard positions be necessary: Approve.
REFUSE COLLECTION SERVICES: 90 -DAY EXTENSION OF CONTRACT WITH CALSAN,
INC. to allow additional time for staff and Calsan, Inc. to complete the
contract process approved on September 24, 1991: Approve.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -6-
193 4 5
LIBRARY EQUIPMENT PURCHASE FROM FUNDS CONTRIBUTED BY THE JOHN AND SHARON
MITCHELL MEMORIAL FUND AND FRIENDS OF THE DOWNEY CITY LIBRARY for the literacy
program: Approve.
ORDINANCES NOT SET FORTH ABOVE
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING THE CABLE TELEVISION FRANCHISE GRANTED TO CONTINENTAL
CAB LEV I S I ON AND AMENDING ORDINANCES NOS. 644, 679 AND 859
Mr. Caton explained this Ordinance would amend the current franchise
granted to Continental Cablevision. He discussed certain portions of the
franchise amendment, including the use of an IF -Mate.
Council Member Boggs questioned_ the . ca pabi i i ti es . of a television set with
an IF-Mate attached and was informed that taping of cable shows would not be
possible.
Mr. John Gibbs, 7727 Hanifred Ave., Los Angeles, representing Continental
Cablevision, discussed specifics of the IF -Mate on new and old television sets.
The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member
Boggs, seconded by Council Member Brazelton, and unanimously carried by the
Members present to waive further reading and introduce.
URGENCY ORDINANCE NO.
AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING SECTIONS 8970
TO 8970.06 RELATING TO INTERIM FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT STANDARDS
Mayor Hayden noted that a four /fifths vote is needed to adopt an Urgency
9
Ordinance; therefore, she requested this item be continued to a meeting set at
4:30 p.m., September 25, 1991 in the Downey City Council Chamber.
RESOLUTIONS NOT SET FORTH ABOVE: None.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
FORMATION OF COMMITTEE TO REVIEW POTENTIAL COUNCILMANIC BOUNDARIES
Mr. Thorson referenced Section 1306 of the City Charter and explained
Council is required to review the district boundaries in the City every ten
years based on the census data. Since the census information has just been
received by the City, it is Council's responsibility to comply with the
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applicable law regarding possible redistricting. The law also requires that a
committee be appointed to study and advise Council on the boundary amendments.
It was moved by Council Member Brazelton, seconded by Council Member
Boggs, and unanimously carried by the Members present to approve a Council
Subcommittee composed of Mayor Hayden and Mayor Pro Tem Boggs for the purposes
of reviewing counci lmani c district boundaries.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -7-
I
92 6
APPROVAL OF FUNDING SUPPORT FOR CITY'S 35TH ANNIVERSARY ACTIVITIES BY
SECOND CENTURY FOUNDATION
Mr. Caton summarized the staff report, citing some of the activities
planned by the Second Century Foundation to honor the City's 35th anniversary.
The Foundation is requesting the Council fund up to $6,000 for these
activities.
Council Member Boggs expressed concern about the estimates given for some
of the events and requested further information from the Foundation.
Mayor Hayden mentioned the Foundation does need an answer as soon as
possible so that events can be planned or cancelled as needed.
Mr. Willis Leach, 7823 Fourth Place, President of the Second Century
Foundation, agreed that some estimates may be .high and indicated the Foundation
will follow the wishes of the Council.
Council Member Boggs commended the work done by the Foundation; however
she noted these economic times warrant careful consideration of expenditures.
Council Member Brazelton requested the vote be delayed until a full
Council can consider the item.
Mayor Hayden expressed support of the Foundation's planned activities, but
agreed to continuing the matter to the meeting scheduled on September 25, 1991.
It was moved by Council Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member
Brazelton, and unanimously carried by the Members present to continue the
matter of partially funding Second Century Foundation activities in honor of
the City's 35th anniversary to 4:30 p.m., September 25, 1991 in the Downey City
Council Chamber.
OTHER BUSINESS: CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS REMOVED BY COUNCIL APPROVAL
CASH CONTRACT NO. S.S.411 - STREET IMPROVEMENTS ALONG BELLFLOWER BOULEVARD
Council Member Boggs noted this portion of Bellflower Boulevard has been
demolished by the incoming freeway. She questioned the involvement of CALTRANS
in this matter.
Mr. Redmayne explained the City's procedure for rebuilding portions of
Bellflower Boulevard, noting that involving CALTRANS would require their
employees to do the work , i n their own time frame.
Mr. Caton noted that funds in the amount of $275,000 from Los Angeles
County Transportation Commission have been appropriated for this project, in
addition to funds from the City's gas tax, and Capital Projects Fund.
Ms. Joyce Lawrence, 9627 Cheddar St., spoke regarding the sidewalk on the
east side of Bellflower Boulevard between Adoree Street and Borson Street. She
suggested these sidewalks be straightened at the same time Bellflower Boulevard
is being rebuilt.
Responding to a question from Mayor Hayden, Mr. Redmayne stated he would
have to review this area prior to making a decision at this time.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -8-
93
Mr. Caton stated staff's recommendation would be to award the bid as is
and then review all the sidewalks in the City that need improvement as a
different matter at the next meeting when the Capital Improvements budget is
considered.
It was moved by Council Member Brazelton, seconded by Council Member
Boggs, and unanimously carried by the Members present to award a unit price
contract totalling $249,061.85 to DBL Construction Corporation for street
improvements under Cash Contract No. S.S. 411, contingent upon Los Angeles
County Transportation Commission's concurrence and execution of funding
agreement.
CASH CONTRACT NO. 584 - FIRESTONE BOULEVARD AND BURNS AVENUE WATER MAINS
Mr. Thorson noted some problems with the low bidder on this project, ANRO
Construction relating to status of their license when the bids were
submitted. If the license was under legitimate suspension at the time of the
bid, the City is obligated under Business and Professionals Code Section
7028.15b to reject the bid. A more significant problem was that the surety
company is located out of state and is not licensed to do business in
California. Under the Public Contracts Code, the bid is not to be considered
unless one of the proper forms of bidder's security is included in the bid. He
mentioned that ANRO Construction's counsel disagrees with his interpretation
and the representative is here to address the issue. Mr. Thorson advised the
Council of three available options: To select the lowest bid with
irregularities which he does not recommend; award to the second low bidder
which may cause delay because of litigation over these issues; or reject all
bids and re- advertise which would be his recommendation.
Mr. Gordon Hunt, 1121 Rodeo Rd., Arcadia, attorney for ANRO Construction,
noted he has submitted a detailed statement of position which he would review
at this time. He stated the problem with the license board was the fault of
the State in advising staff that his client was not licensed properly.
Referencing Exhibit 6 of his position statement, the license board states the
bond suspension had been lifted as of August 28, 1991. As the bid date was
August 29, 1991, his client was legally licensed. Regarding the bid bond, he
discussed the appropriateness of ANRO Construction's current surety bond.
Mayor Hayden stated that after hearing Mr. Thorson's comments, it is her
opinion ANRO Construction did not submit a proper bid.
It was moved by Council Member Brazelton, seconded by Council Member
Boggs, and unanimously carried by the Members present to reject all bids and
grant authority to readvertise.
CASH CONTRACT NO. 585A - DOWNEY MUNICIPAL COURTHOUSE DEMOLITION
Mr. Brian Rallonza, 10709 Lesterford Ave., noted he is the estimater and
project manager for IN -TEK Constructors, Inc. and the second low bidder on the
Courthouse demolition project. He distributed material via the City Clerk and
reviewed his current insurance information, notin the City can claim against
if noting y g
the bid bond f the work is not performed. He requested the bid not be redone
again for a third time as the amount will be too low for any possible profit.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -9-
.
9348
Mr. Thorson clarified that staff's recommendation is to reject all bids as
there were problems with all six bids. Also, he has never seen a bid bond with
a rider that was attached to this one. Basically, the rider states the City
cannot collect on the bid bond if for some reason the company cannot receive
insurance. This is a very significant factor and affects the competitiveness
of the bid. Referring to the Public Contracts Code, it does require a bond
that is not conditioned on technicalities that are significant to the City. He
also expressed concern with the license suspension that does not comply with
the Business and Professions Code.
Mr. Redmayne discussed the complications with the other bidders on this
project.
It was moved by Council Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member
Brazelton, and unanimously carried by the Members present to reject all bids
and grant authority to re-advertise.
EXCHANGE OF PROPOSITION A FUNDS WITH SANTA FE SPRINGS
Council Member Boggs questioned the deadline in using the Proposition A
funds, and expressed concern with continuing to balance the budget by the
exchange of these funds with other cities' general funds when the transit study
is still outstanding.
Mr. Powell explained the money must be used within three years, which
gives the City at least one and a half years to two years before the deadline.
Council Member Boggs expressed opposition to the trade since the public
voted this money to be used for transportation needs in the City.
Mayor Hayden noted the current economic situation warrants that this
exchange be made, and Council Member Brazelton concurred.
Ms. Joyce Lawrence, 9627 Cheddar St., suggested Proposition A money be
used to support a local transportation system for Downey Unified School
District children.
Discussion ensued regarding the interest in trading Proposition A funds at
this time.
Responding to questions, Mr. Jarrett noted the transit study will be ready
for Council review on October 22, 1991.
Mr. Caton mentioned the School District has modified its policy on
transporting children, which changes the need for crossing guards. This could
be an opportunity to pay for these additional crossing guards.
Mayor Hayden noted that three affirmative votes would be needed to
constitute an action. This item could be continued to September 25, 1991.
It was moved by Council Member Brazelton, seconded by Council Member
Boggs, and unanimously carried to continue the matter of trading Proposition A
funds with the City of Santa Fe Springs to 4:30 p.m., September 25, 1991 in the
Downey City Council Chamber.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -10-
9349
REQUEST TO PROVIDE NEEDED SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT SERVICES REQUIRED B Y POLICE
OLICE
DEPARTMENT COMPUTER PROGRAM
Mr. Caton summarized the staff report, commenting n
p t g on the computer systems
i
currently in use at the Police Department. Some software has been urchased •
however, it cannot be fully P '
y utilized until staff can be trained on the
remaining equipment. Staff is recommending preparation of a request for
proposals from potential vendors q
P s to provide this needed support. The estimate
is $150,000 per year for the service.
Captain Chelstrom explained the service would include a management expert
on site 40 hours a week, • • P
on call, and would provide all training so that
computer screens could be used in the police cars.
r""r.
Mr. Caton advised the Police Department w i l l find money i n their r
et to cover. this y e existing
bud
9 is expense..
f
Discussion was held regarding the proposed funding and training involved.
Captain Chelstrom noted the $150,000 was a rough estimate taken from the
Orange Police Department with similar equipment.
Mr. Caton said prior to any contract being awarded, a report would d
9 � p u be
returned to Council with complete budget expenditure information.
It
was moved by Council
M
y Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member
Brazelton, and unanimously approved by the Members present to authorize staff
to prepare a request for proposals from potential vendors to rovide needed
support for the Police D p
Department Records Management System (RMS) and new
Computer -Aided Dispatch (CAD) System.
Prior to the foregoing vote, Council Member Brazelton noted changes in
personnel would require on-going g
q g g training and expense. He inquired about the
personal computers referenced in the staff report and was informed these
computers have already been purchased; the Police Department needs to become
more computer literate to use them to their full capacity.
ACCEPTANCE OF DONATION BY JAMES L. STAMPS FOUNDATION AND AUTHORIZE
PURCHASE OF PIPE ORGAN FOR DOWNEY THEATRE
Council Member Boggs expressed concern with overhead costs in maintaining
the pipe organ and appearance of the pipes.
Mr. Jarrett explained the proposed system is small and portable; it would
be stored in the back of the theatre. There would not be pipes 4rge i es to
maintain, as this system is smaller than a large church organ. He mentioned
the President of the g
Foundation has seen the organ and is satisfied that this
system is one they would l i k e to purchase for the City.
Discussion ensued regarding the actual costs of the organ, installation,
and maintenance.
9 >
Mr. Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee St., commented on his discussions
with Pasadena City College, the Los Angeles Theatre Organ Society, and the Old
Time Music Company.
p ny. He expressed concern with finding ng a competent organist and
the cost of ongoing repairs.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -11-
rims
•
3
Mr. Jarrett assured Council that the Stamps Foundation would contribute
toward ongoing maintenance. He mentioned the organ's potential for producing
revenue from use of the organ, citing a proposed silent f i l m series used in
conjunction with the organ.
I t was moved by Council Member Brazelton, seconded by Council Member
Boggs, and unanimously carried by the Members present to accept a donation of
$65,000 from the James L. Stamps Foundation for the sole purpose of purchase
and restoration of a theatre pipe organ /calliope and direct staff to proceed
with the purchase, restoration, and installation of the instruments in the
Downey Theatre. The name of the instrument is to be the James L. Staines organ.
RESOLUTION REGARDING NEW CLASS SPECIFICATIONS AND DESIGNATING SALARY
RANGES FOR ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF PHYSICAL SERVICES AND HOUSING PLANNER
Mayor Hayden stated that Council Member Cormack requested this matter be
continued if he was not present at the meeting.
It was moved by Council Member Brazelton, seconded by Council Member
Boggs, and unanimously carried by the Members present to continue the matter of
new class specifications and salary ranges for Assistant Superintendent of
Physical Services and Housing Planner to 4 :30 p.m., September 25, 1991 in the
Downey City Council Chambers.
OTHER BUSINESS: CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Council Member Boggs mentioned she had received complaints from people who
have been required to remove their signs on Firestone Boulevard; they question
the consistency of Sign Code enforcement along Firestone Boulevard.
Council Member Boggs noted another complaint received regarding excessive
signage on the "Casa Leon" furniture store located on Firestone Boulevard.
Council Member Boggs referenced a letter from the Chamber of Commerce
requesting authorization to sell alcoholic beverages at the Downey Theatre.
She requested this matter be placed on a future agenda for discussion.
Council Member Brazelton reiterated his request that an Ordinance be
written addressing the amortization of signs approved by Zone Exception cases,
etc.
Mr. Rangel noted the resignation of two code enforcement officers has
affected the Sign Code enforcement in the City; however, he and Mr. Makshanoff
will be establishing a policy on this matter as soon as possible.
Council Member Boggs requested staff contact the complainants regarding
signage on Firestone Boulevard and explain the situation to them.
Mayor Hayden requested a report on the reasoning behind offering a density
bonus on large developments.
Mr. Caton explained the theory is if an owner has two small lots adjacent
to each other, a better development would emerge if the lots were combined
instead of the presence of multiple family dwellings on each lot. The density
bonus would give the developer an incentive to consider prior to construction.
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -12-
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9351
ADJOURNMENT: 10:40 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned to 4:30 p.m., September 25, 1991 to complete
discussion on items continued from this agenda.
/ /
1/ / •
AL
Judith E. Wanneil, City Clerk Ll 141
fl
Council Minutes 9/24/91 -13-