Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-04-14-59-Regular Meeting1 F 542 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APRIL 143, 1959 The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall at 8:00 A.M. on Tuesday, April 14, 1959. Mayor Edwin L. Giddings presiding. PRESENT: Councilmen: Dunnum, Peavey, Temple, Giddings ABSENT: Councilman: Stamps ALSO PRESENT: Oren L. King, City Manager Royal H. Sorensen, City Attorney Robert Gain, Fire Chief Loren Morgan, Deputy Chief of Police Dan McNutt, City Planner Ray Lake, Director of Building & Safety Don Simpson, City Engineer Hal Durham, Traffic Engineer Lee Leavitt, Civil Engineer Roy Starkey, Director of Finance Lester Bergslien, City Librarian Della Doyle, City Clerk The Reverend Joseph T. Hall of the First Four Square Church of Downey gave the invocation. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Peavey, and so ordered that the minutes of the meetings of March 24th and March 31, 1959, be approved as written. City Clerk Della Doyle read the following correspondence: A letter from the County Boundary Commission advising of Cudahy Annexa- tion No. 4 to the City of Huntington Park revision. A letter from the Twinkletoes Bluebirds organization expressing their appreciation to Mr. Robert DeSio for his help with their tree planting. A letter from Mr. Oliver Youell commending the Police Department on their quick response to his call to quiet a recent disturbance in the early morning,hours. A letter from the League of California Cities stating that the League had unanimously agreed that they would take no position on A.B. 335 relating to purchase of foreign made goods by public agencies. A letter from Verne Scoggins, Regional Operations Director of the Post Office Department in San Francisco in response to a letter from Councilman Peavey stating that a survey to determine the adequacy of postal facilities at Downey will be under way in the near future. He also stated that if the present facility cannot or should not be enlarged, consideration will be given to acquisition of a new leased facility. Councilman Stamps arrived at the meeting at 8:15 A.M. A letter from Alice Woodrow, Director of the Downey Museum of Art attaching a statement of activities of the Museum for the fiscal year 1957 -8 in support of the contractural agreement of $1,000.00 from the City of Downey. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Peavey and passed by the following vote to authorize issuing a warrant in the amount of $1,000.00 to the Downey Art Museum in accordance with the contractual agree- ment between the museum and the City of Downey. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT:. 0 Councilmen: None A letter from Mrs. Leona Houtsma, Secretary of the Camp Fire Girls, Rio Hondo Area Council, inviting one of the Councilmen to attend their first Grand Council Fire at 7:30 P.M., June 7th at Burbeck Field. Councilman Temple will arrange to attend. A letter from the office of Mayor W. F. Nicholson of Denver extending an invitation to the Mayor of Downey to attend the 36th annual American Municipal Congress to be held in Denver from November 29 to December 2, 1959. An invitation was also extended to attend the Air Force Academy- University -- of Colorado football game on November 28. A request was made for reservations to be in by May 1. Letters from Mr. & Mrs. Don Hale, Mrs. Mike C. Kearns requesting a crossing guard at the intersection of Paramount and Quoit, and from Rev. Patrick L. Cleary in appreciation of the Council's recent action in providing for consid- eration of this in next year's budget. A letter from Mrs. Margaret Heinze, Juvenile Protection and Safety Chairman of the Downey North Junior High P.T.A. expressing gratitude for placing of the traffic signal at Florence and Rives Avenue and requesting that the crosswalk at Tweedy Lane and Florence Avenue be eliminated and that consid- eration be given to installing sidewalks and curbs on Tweedy Lane. Councilman Peavey brought out the fact that Gallatin School District and Downey Union High School District have been requested to consider the con- struction of sidewalks in front of their schools. It was suggested that the City Manager and Traffic Committee make a complete report to submit on this matter. Item No. 3 of the City Manager's Report states the Trustees of both Downey Union High School and Gallatin School Districts are willing to cooperate with the City of Downey in this matter. A letter from the Island Civic Association, Inc. requesting an Improvement District for Bluff Road in order to create a second access to the residences on the "Island". It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Peavey and so ordered that further study be given this item. A letter from the American Association of University Women advocating a library of excellence as an investment of vital importance, with an appearance which would promote civic pride. A letter from the architectural firm of Anthony and Langford stating they are ready to resubmit plans and specifications on the City Library and that because of soil analysis there had to be a change in foundation plans that would add approximately $3,000.00 to the cost. A letter from Governor Brown's office asking that a project chairman be appointed from the City of Downey to work with the Governor's Advisory Committee on children and youth, whose findings will be summarized and presented at the White House Conference on Children and Youth in Washington, D.C., March 27 - April 2, 1960. A letter from the Mayor of Long Beach requesting additional support from the City of Downey for improved airline service at the Long Beach Municipal Airport. A resolution was submitted for approval by the City Council. RESOLUTION NO. 409 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA, PERTAINING TO THE POSITION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY WITH RESPECT TO DOCKET NO. 7984 ET AL., SOUTHERN TRANSCONTINENTAL SERVICE CASE, BEFORE THE CIVIL AERO- NAUTICS BOARD. The resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Peavey and so ordered that further reading be waived. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Stamps and passed by the following vote that Resolution No. 409 be adopted. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None The City Clerk read a letter from Mr. Robert T. Whitman, attorney for J. E. Brain,, appealing Zone Exception Case No. 114 on property located at the northeast corner of Downey Avenue and Florence Avenue in order to establish, operate and maintain a retail A & P Food Market and repotted that the necessary deposit of $50.00 has been received. Mr. Whitman was present and submitted a brief of points and arguments of the owner in support of the appeal. Mr. James Rue, 9923 S. Downey Avenue, spoke on behalf of numerous residents who were present to uphold the Planning Commission's decision. Others who spoke in favor of the decision of the Planning Commission were Mr. Vind of Santa Fe Springs representing property owner Rothschild whose property is presently in escrow and James Cooper of 8352 E. De Costa. City Planner Dan McNutt reviewed the decision of the Planning Commission. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Giddings and passed by the following vote that the decision of the Planning Commission to deny Zone Exception #114 be sustained. AYES: 3 Councilmen: Peavey, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSTAIN: 2 Councilmen: Dunnum, Stamps (Corrected to read Dunnum disquali- ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None fied himself from voting -- Minutes of April 28, 1959) The City Clerk continued with the reading of the written correspondence: Three letters opposing Assembly Bill #919 from Mrs. J. Spiro of 9326 Lubec, Marjorie C. Long, 9135 Lemoran Ave., and Mrs. W. Aldridge, 9318 Lubec St. Councilman Peavey recommended the letters be included as part of the material to be used by the delegates attending the Assembly hearings in Sacramento on April 16. Mayor Giddings recognized Dr. Arnold O'Toole of the Rose Float Associa- tion who made a presentation on behalf of the Rose Float Association of a trophy (picture) for second prize in the 1959 Rose Parade to the City of Downey. Mayor Giddings commended the Rose Float Association on the wonderful work done by them. A report on Proposed Business Survey to the Downey Council was presented and read to the Council by Mr. William Williams, Manager of the Downey Chamber of Commerce. The proposed budget of the Chamber of Commerce for the year 1959 was then presented by Chamber President C. Larry Hoag for study and consideration by the Council and it was pointed out that to have the proposed professional survey it will be necessary to have additional support from the City. After some discussion on the merits of such a survey it was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Stamps and passed by the following vote that the City Manager and Council study the feasibility of putting $12,500.00 in the budget for the Chamber of Commerce and no action be taken until the next meeting of the Council. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None 54 Mr. Williams announced that petitions for the Lighting District on Firestone was nearing completion and petitions were completed for a lighting district on 2nd and 3rd Streets. ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE BY AMENDING SECTION 3185 THEREOF, WHICH SECTION RELATES TO PARKING OF VEHICLES. The ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Peavey and so ordered that further reading be waived. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Temple and passed by the following vote that the ordinance be introduced. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE BY AMENDING SECTION 3179 RELATING TO TRUCK ROUTES. The ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Peavey and so ordered that further reading be waived. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Peavey and passed by the following vote that said ordinance be introduced. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE BY AMENDING SECTION 3186 RELATING TO RESTRICTED SPEED LIMITS. The ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Temple and so ordered that further reading be waived. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Peavey and passed by the following vote that said ordinance be introduced. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None Architects Anthony and Langford presented the alternate plans and specifications for the City Library. Mr. Langford reported alternate bids will be requested for vinyl and asphalt flooring. Mr. Merritt M. Yancey, Chairman of the Library Advisory Board,, presented a brochure which had been prepared in conjunction with National Library Week April 12 -18, 1959. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and passed by the following vote to authorize filing of the plans and specifications submitted by Anthony and Langford and prepare to go to bid. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None 5 RESOLUTION NO. 410 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY ACCEPTING FOR DEDICATION A PORTION OF BIRCHDALE AVENUE The resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Temple and so ordered that further reading be waived. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Temple and passed by the following vote that Resolution No. 410 be adopted. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None City Engineer Don Simpson filed with the City Clerk the Debt Limit Report for Tenth Street Improvement District #18 showing a total estimated amount to be assessed to the district of $38,033.95. RESOLUTION NO. 411 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY SETTING THE TIME AND PLACE FOR HEARING ON THE REPORT OF THE IMPROVEMENT OF ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 18 (TENTH STREET) The resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and so ordered that further reading be waived. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and passed by the following vote setting the time and place of the hearing on the report of the improvement of Assessment District No. 18 for Tenth Street at 8:00 A.M., May 26, 1959, in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, and ordering the report filed, and Resolution No. 411 be adopted. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None RESOLUTION NO. 412 A RESOLUTION OF INTENTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY FOR THE ACQUISITION OF NECESSARY RIGHTS OF WAY AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF CURBS, GUTTERS, AND PAVEMENT IN ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 18 (TENTH STREET) The resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Peavey and so ordered that further reading be waived. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Stamps and passed by the following vote that Resolution No. 412 be adopted. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None A report prepared pursuant to Resolution No. 412 was submitted by City Engineer Don Simpson, covering the proposed acquisition of necessary rights of way and the construction of curb, gutter, and pavement. The report consisting of plans and specifications, diagram of assessment dis- trict, estimated assessment and assessment diagram, and estimate of cost for acquisition and improvement for District #18, Tenth Street, was re- ceived, considered and ordered filed by the Council '5J' It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Peavey and passed by the following vote that Resolution No. 416 be adopted. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None RESOLUTION NO. ,^ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY URGING THE STATE LEGISLATURE TO INCREASE THE STATE MOTOR VEHICLE FUEL TAX FOR ALLOCATION TO CITIES AND COUNTIES FOR CORRECTION OF CITY STREET AND COUNTY ROAD DEFICIENCIES The resolution was read by title only. City Manager King reported this legislation for an increase in state gasoline tax of lfi would amount to approximately $275,000 per year for the City of Downey; the counties to receive .4 of the 10, increase. The City Manager reported Downey would have very little difficulty matching the revenue funds under its current program of assessment districts and public works programs and the addi- tional monies would provide funds for an overall street improvement program to eliminate the City's street and highway deficiencies. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Stamps and passed by the following vote that the Council go on record as opposing any increase in taxes in the City of Downey, relative to the matter of increas- ing the gasoline tax, at least. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None No action was taken on the resolution. Mayor Giddings recognized Mr. James Coursey who was present to be in- formed of the Council's decision in the matter of Zone Exception Case No. 93 previously taken under submission. City Planner Dan McNutt recommended approval of the Zone Exception with the following conditions to be required: 1. That curbs, gutters and sidewalks be installed on Old River School Road to the satisfaction of the Director of Public Works. 2. That a concrete block wall fence not less than 5 feet, 8 inches nor more than 5 feet, Ilk inches in height be erected along the northwest and northeast property lines. 3. That the entire parking area and driveway area be paved with asphaltic concrete. 4. That no outside storage be continued other than pipe racks. 5. That new construction be of frame and stucco or masonry type. 6. That machines be limited to those existing and those pro- posed to be added at the time of the granting of this exception. 7. That the shop operations attendant to this use be conducted not before 7:00 A.M. nor later than 6:00 P.M., nor on Sunday. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Temple and passed by the following vote that the decision of the Planning Commission be reversed subject to the seven conditions, with the exception that #5 should read that the construction be of a masonry type. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None 54n RESOLUTION NO. WS 142 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AND SPECIFYING THE FUNDS OUT OF WHICH THE SAME ARE TO BE PAID. ( #8580 through #8883 $62,863.83) (Payroll) The resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Peavey and so ordered that further reading be waived. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Peavey and passed by the following vote that Resolution No. WS 142 be adopted. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None RESOLUTION NO. WS 143 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AND SPECIFYING THE FUNDS OUT OF WHICH THE SAME ARE TO BE PAID. ( #3736 through #3931 $119.626.43) The resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Temple and so ordered that further reading be waived. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Temple and passed by the following vote that Resolution No. WS 143 be adopted. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None RESOLUTION NO. 417 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DETERMINING THAT CERTAIN MATTERS PENDING BEFORE THE STATE LEGISLATURE ARE ADVERSE TO THE INTERESTS OF THE CITY The resolution was read in part. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Temple and so ordered that further reading be waived. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Temple and passed by the following vote that Resolution No. 417 be adopted. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None It was recommended by Councilmen Peavey and Temple that City Manager King be delegated to attend the Assembly hearings in Sacramento on Thursday, April 16, 1959. Councilman Giddings recommended that Stephen Skinner also be delegated to attend the hearing if he were available. Councilman Dunnum rec- ommended that City Attorney Bill Sorensen be delegated as he undoubtedly would be the best qualified person to present opposition to Assembly Bills 919, 602, 618, 631, 871 and 479. It was moved by Councilman Temple, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and passed by the following vote that the adopted resolution be modified to read that such persons as designated by the Mayor to represent the City, appear in Sacramento for the purpose of opposing the adoption of certain legislature. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Temple, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 0 Councilmen: None 5 Mayor Giddings appointed Stephen Skinner, City Attorney Sorensen and City Manager King as delegates to attend the hearings on Assembly Bills in Sacramento on Thursday, April 16, 1959. Councilman Temple asked to be excused from the Council Meeting at 11 :00 o'clock A.M. City Attorney Sorensen reported that the court had sustained the demurrer which had been filed on behalf of the City in the case of r-• Bleamaster vs. the City of Downey and plaintiff had twenty days within which to amend the complaint. He stated that in the event an amended complaint were filed he probably would file another demurrer and in his opinion, there was a good possibility of such demurrer also being sustained. City Manager King reported that under the current policy all com- mittees, not covered by ordinance or resolution, are appointed for annual terms ending the second Tuesday in April and in order to assist in these reappointments, the names of the members of these committees are listed in the City Manager's Report. Councilman Dunnum reported that Donald Dudlext on the Citizens' Tax Committee had moved out of his district into Councilman Giddings' District A. Inasmuch as Councilman Giddings has a vacancy on this committee, he appointed Donald Dudlext of his district to serve. The name of the late Mrs. M. C. Kearns in District #1, Councilman Dunnum's District, was deleted from the list of members serving on the Civic Center Committee. Councilman Peavey appointed John Alexander and Art Sarka to serve from his District on the Industrial Development Committee. Councilman Dunnum reported Maxine Barnett had resigned from the Rose Float Committee and appointed Ruth Kelley to serve in her place for District #I. Councilman Giddings reported Frederick Nelson of District #4 had re- signed from the Rose Float Committee. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and passed by the following vote to approve the appointment of the committees as they have been corrected. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple The City Clerk was asked to read again the letter from Governor Brown of California regarding the White House Conference of Youth. Mayor Giddings highly recommended Richard Lawrence who has a great deal of experience in working with youth. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and so ordered that the appointment of Richard Lawrence as Chairman of the Nationwide Youth Conference be approved. Mayor Giddings requested the City Clerk to officially advise Mr. Lawrence 011" of his appointment. City Engineer Don Simpson reported Contract No. 12 has been completed and recommended that the City Council take the following action: 1. Accept the work and authorize final payment to Vernon Paving Company 2. Authorize the filing of the "Notice of Completion." 3. Authorize the deduction of $140.00 from the amount due Vernon Paving Company and the payment of $140.00 to Garrette A. Brummett. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and passed by the following vote to authorize acceptance of the work done under Contract No. 12, Florence Avenue, authorize final payment to Vernon Paving Company with the deduction of $140.00, and authorize filing of the Notice of Completion. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple The City Engineer reported that the work under Contract No. 21 for traffic signals at Florence and Rives Avenue had been completed satis- factorily and recommended that the City Council accept the work and authorize final payment to Steiny and Mitchel, Inc. and the filing of a Notice of Completion. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Stamps and passed by the following vote to authorize acceptance of the work done under Contract No. 21 for traffic signals at Florence and Rives Avenue, final payment to Steiny and Mitchel, Inc. and the filing of a Notice of Completion. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple The City Engineer reported the work under Contract No. 16 for the improvement of Stewart and Gray Road has been completed and recommended that the City Council accept the work and authorize final payment to the H & H Construction Company and the filing of a Notice of Completion. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Stamps and passed by the following vote to authorize acceptance of the work done under Contract No. 16 for the improvement of Stewart and Gray Road, final payment to H & H Construction Company and the filing of a Notice of Completion. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple City Manager King reported that 28 of the 31 property owners on Brook- shire have signed their deeds for the 12 -foot additional right of way on each side. It was recommended that the Council authorize payment for the acquisition of the right of way on the northeast corner of Brookshire and Cherokee in accordance with the appraisal of Mr. J. A. Mann involving an amount of not more than $2500.00 for the Brookshire side and installation of curbs, gutters and street paving in front of his property on Cherokee in exchange for the additional right of way on Cherokee. It was also rec- ommended that Council authorize condemnation proceedings for any right of ways not included at this time. City Manager King reported that the plans and specifications are almost ready to go to the State and recommended that Council request the Division of Highways to appropriate sufficient funds to cover the cost of the right of way acquisition on Brookshire between Florence and Cherokee Drive from the City of Downey contingency budget to Project No. 2 not to exceed $5,000.00. It was moved by Counciman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and passed by the following vote to authorize condemnation proceedings for .—. any right of ways not included at this time and authorize the City Attorney to draw the necessary resolutions and request the Division of Highways to transfer $5,000.00 from the City of Downey Contingency Budget to Project No. 2 to cover the cost of the right of way acquisition on Brookshire between Florence Avenue and Cherokee Drive. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilmen: Temple S51 • 55 City Manager King read a report regarding sewer extension for the Florence Avenue Fire Station. In order to serve the Fire Department property from Florence Avenue with sewers, it will be necessary to con- struct 350 feet of sewer estimated to cost $3,000.00. A portion of this cost can be reimbursed from the property owner to the east who presently utilizes a septic tank for waste disposal. As the remaining property owners to the west require sewers, they may simply extend this sewer. The City Manager recommended the City Council to authorize the construction of the sewer with 88/198 or $1,350.00 to be reimbursed at a later date, and that the funds for this sewer in the approximate amount of $3,000.00 be appropriated from the General Reserve in view of the limited funds available to both the Fire and Public Works Departments. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and passed by the following vote to authorize appropriation of $3,000 from General Reserve Funds for the cost of this installation. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple City Manager King reported that Chief Robinson had suggested that the assignment of a deputy to the Downey Municipal Court District would allevi- ate a very serious man hour loss problem through the present requirements that all complaints must be processed at the South Gate office. Judges Boone and Johnston have indicated that office space can be made available and concur in the request as it will be advantageous to the courts as well as in the prosecution of both felonies and misdemeanors in the City of Downey. Mr. King suggested that a letter be written to the District Attorney requesting that sufficient personnel be furnished by the District Attorney's office to adequately handle the evergrowing problem of criminal complaint processing in this area. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Stamps and so ordered that the Mayor be authorized to sign a letter to District Attorney William McKesson requesting the assignment of a deputy to the Downey Municipal Court District. City Manager King reported escrow instructions for the purchase of the 70 x 150' property facing Firestone across from the City Hall are ready for City approval and signature. It was recommended that Council authorize approval for the signing of the escrow instructions which will terminate on or before June 1, 1959. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and passed by the following vote to authorize the signing of the escrow instruc- tions for the purchase of the Hagan property across from the City Hall. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple City Manager King recommended Council approval of the appointment of Mrs. Alberta Pfeiffer as Deputy City Clerk- Treasurer in her present pay key, to be properly bonded and certified. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and passed by the following vote authorizing the appointment of Mrs. Alberta Pfeiffer as Deputy Clerk- Treasurer in her present pay key, to be properly bonded and certified. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple ,, Pa City Manager King suggested that the State Department of Public Works be contacted relative to any possible control points or preliminary location of the proposed Century Freeway. City Manager King reported he had received a document from the State Board of Equalization which had been endorsed by the League of California Cities which changes the present agreement for the distribution of sales tax to the cities. At the present time sales tax is remitted to the City in twelve payments, four in large payments and eight small payments. This is to be changed from the twelve payments to eight payments. This agreement will permit the State Board of Equalization to remit money approximately five to six weeks earlier than has been done previously and will permit the City's use of this money for investment or other purposes. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Peavey and passed by the following vote to authorize the Mayor to sign the agreement revising the distribution of sales tax to provide for payment in eight installments instead of twelve. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple Mr. King reported that the eight cities in the southeast area are being studied for possible location of a helicopter site and that a further report will be submitted at a later date. Councilman Peavey suggested finding some suitable lot in Downey for a future helicopter site. Councilman Dunnum suggested the possibility of using the roof of the City Hall as a helicopter landing. City Manager King reported he has received a request to improve the water flow in the downtown business district and that the Fire Department is working with Mr. Edward Williamson of the Downey County Water Department on this problem. Chief Gain of the Fire Department recommended installation of an 8" main at the south side of Firestone from Downey, westerly 700', terminat- ing at Rives Avenue. This would allow the installation of six new fire hydrants at a cost to the city not to exceed $2,000.00 to cover repaving of the street, and would add to the fire rating approximately 90 points. Chief Gain advised that this installation is recommended by the Fire Under- writers. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and passed by the following vote to authorize the city to negotiate with the Downey County Water Company in the installation of an 8" water main at the south side of Firestone from Downey, westerly 700', terminating at Rives Avenue, and to authorize transfer of funds not to exceed $2,000.00 from the current Fire Department budget. AYES: 3 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple ABSTAIN: 1 Councilman: Stamps City Manager King reported that the Lakewood Water & Power Company has about 1100 connections in the City of Downey and suggested that a study be made relative to the City's acquisition of these. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Peavey and so ordered that a report be made on the possibility of Downey's acquiring these water facilities from the City of Lakewood. Mr. King suggested that the Council meet with the Fire Committee on Wednesday, April 22, at 7:30 P.M. to go over the Fire Zone Code to form a master zoning ordinance. 554 City Manager King recommended that the Council authorize the reinvest- ment of $1,000,000.00 in short term, 90 -day and 180 -day Treasury Notes at the prevailing rate of interest. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Peavey and passed by the following vote to authorize the Director of Finance and the City Treasurer to reinvest $1,000,000.00 in short term, 90 -day and 180 -day Treasury Notes. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple The City Manager reported that Mr. Byron White had obtained 64.7% of the property owner's signatures on Firestone for mercury vapor lighting and recommended that the Council approve preparation of plans and specifications for this lighting district. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Peavey and so ordered to authorize the City to approve preparation of plans and specifica- tions for mercury vapor lighting on Firestone Boulevard. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Peavey and so ordered to authorize employment of the firm of Burke, Williams and Sorensen to prepare the necessary legal documents for mercury vapor lighting district on Firestone Boulevard. It was moved by Councilman Dunnum, seconded by Councilman Peavey and passed by the following vote to authorize appropriation of $3,000.00 to cover the engineering costs for mercury vapor lighting on Firestone Boulevard. AYES: 4 Councilmen: Peavey, Dunnum, Stamps, Giddings NOES: 0 Councilmen: None ABSENT: 1 Councilman: Temple Deputy Chief Morgan of the Police Department reported that department is planning to make a study of setting up a school boy patrol for those schools who must have crossing guards, and recommended that a meeting be called in order for him to present the matter to the School Administration and the Council. The City Manager recommended Council opposition to AB 1067, 1778 and 1779 as outlined in his memorandum to the Council. It was moved by Councilman Peavey, seconded by Councilman Dunnum and so ordered that the City of Downey oppose AB 1067, 1778 and 1779 as recommended by the City Manager, and that the assemblymen from this district be advised. Councilman Dunnum suggested that a study be made for consideration by the City of designating street names on the streets themselves in 46" letters. It was recommended that the Traffic Committee make this study along with a study for posting adequate street signs and the possibility of showing block numbers. Councilman Giddings stated the Planning Commission had been designated to work on the uniform naming of streets throughout the City. City Planner Dan McNutt reported the Planning Commission will be ready to start on the matter of uniform street names as soon as their work on the Master Plan project is completed. There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting adjourned at 12 :00 o'clock to Tuesday, April 21, 1959, at 7:00 P.M., to be held in the Downey Elementary School Auditorium. r Deptity City C 1 rk ayo r