HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-10-24-72-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
OCTOBER 24, 1972
T A B L E O F M I N U T E A C T I O N S
gTTMECT e
Minutes; Council Meeting of-10/9/72
Appeal, Z.E. Case #1072, 8049 Otto St.
Resolution #2738, Establishing Downey -Guadalajara
Sister City Association
Fee for subdivision (12250-12268 Orizaba)
Legal Claims (for information)
Ref. #057, Gerald Sesslin
Ref. #074, Daniel T. Fox
Ref. #075, Auto Club of Southern California
Ref. #076, Jimmy M. Mendez
Legal Claim #074, Daniel T. Fox
Ordinance #426, Amending Sections of DMC
Relating to Business Licensing
Resolution #2736, Modifying Select System of
Streets by Certain Additions or Deletions
Resolution #2737, Consenting to Establishment
of Portion of Garfield Avenue as part of System
of County Highways
Participation Agreement, Garfield Avenue TOPICS
Project
Garfield Avenue TOPICS Project - Plans & specs
Garfield Avenue TOPICS Project - Authority to
advertise for bids
Garfield Avenue TOPICS Project - Appropriation
Resolution #WS-814 (Payroll)
Resolution INS-815 (B Warrants)
CC #SS-264, SW Corner, Firestone Blvd./Old
River School Rd. - Negative finding on
Environmental Impact Report; plans & specs;
authority to advertise
CC #325, Nature Museum @ Wilderness Park - Plans
& specs & authority to advertise
CC #317, True Ave. bet Blandwood Rd. &
Telegraph Rd. - Award of contract
CC #248, Wilderness Park Preliminary Site
Grading - Acceptance of improvements
CC #297, Miscellaneous Repairs - Acceptance of
improvements
CC #318, Unit 1, Pangborn Ave. - Acceptance of
improvements
CC #327, Downey Rio Hondo Golf Course
Irrigation System - Plans & specs; authority
to advertise
Page 1 of 2
ACTION
Approved
Approved
Adopted as revised
Approved
No action
Denied
Adopted
Adopted
Adopted
Approved
Approved
Granted
Approved
Adopted
Adopted
Approved
PAGE NO.
1
2
2
2
Approved, subject to submission
of Environmental Impact Report
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
2
3
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
5
5
5
5
5
6-
COUNCIL MINUTES, OCTOBER 24, 1972
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
SUBJECT•
Sidewalk Matching Funds
Yield Sign Removal, Ryerson Ave. at Benares St.,
Julius Ave. at Luxor St.
Agreement for Golf Course Maintenance
Request for Driveway Apron at 8040 Cheyenne Ave.
Tentative Tract #20796 Subdivision - Environmental
Impact Statement having less than trivial effect
Haunted house operation, Ratliffe St,
Zone Exception Case #954, Corner Florence &
Haledon - Issuance of permit providing it meets
all requirements except time limit
Page 2 of 2
ACTION: PAGE NO.
Approved 6
Approved 6
Approved 6
Taken under submission & Ref.
to planning & Public Works 7
Approved 7
Staff requested to check area 8
Approved 8
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
OCTOBER 24, 1972
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 8:00 a.m.,
October 24, 1972, in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Pro Tem
Thomas H. Morton presiding,
PRESENT: Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
ABSENT: Councilmen: Temple, Winton
ALSO PRESENT: Donald B. Robison, Assistant City Manager
Mark Allen, Acting City Attorney
Ervin Spindel, Director of Public Works
William A. Goggin, Director of Planning
James D. Ruth, Director of Parks d Recreation
Ray Lake, Director of Building & Safety
Robert W. Gain, Fire Chief
Loren D. Morgan, Police Chief
Donald Warren, Deputy Fire Chief
Russ K. Reynolds, Purchasing Agent
Harald J. Henriksen, City Engineer
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk
Judy McDonnell, Executive Secretary
The Invocation was delivered by Reverend Kenneth Peterson, Christ Lutheran Church,
followed by the Flag Salute led by Mr. Bill Reed of the Downey Call Enterprise.
With the assistance of Mayor Pro Tem Morton and Sharon Ringo, Miss Public Works,
Public Works Director Spindel presented 'Zero, Defect Quarterly Awards to Kenneth Sem,
Sub -Foreman, Physical Services Division, and Katherine Holtzclaw, Executive Secretary,
Water Division;
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and so ordered
to approve the Minutes of the City Council Meeting of October 9, 1972.
Communication from City of Lodi regarding Ordinances Urging Prosecution on Drug
Abuse. Ordered filed.
Communication from Public Utilities Commission regarding Investigation into Methods
of Compliance with the Environmental Quality Act of 1970. Ordered filed.
Communications from Public Utilities Commission regarding Joint Applications of
uthern California Gas Company and Pacific Lighting Service Company for Adjustment of
tes to Reflect Costs Incurred by Gas Exploration. Ordered filed.
Communication from Chamber of Commerce regarding Quarterly Report, July 1 -
September 30, 1972. Ordered filed.
Communication from City of Glendora regarding Endorsement of Anti -Obscenity
Legislation - Proposition 18. Ordered filed.
Communication from City of Buena Park expressing Commendation and Appreciation for
Assistance provided by Downey Police Department. Ordered filed.
Communication from Planning Commission reporting on Zone Exception Case #1072, 8049
Otto Street,
Planning Director Coggin reviewed the ease and stated the Planning Commission has
voted to uphold its decision on this matter. He said the only change requested is that
the Plot Plans and elevation be dated September (nth, inasmuch as there has been a
revision submitted.
Mr. Robert J. Chancellor, 8049 Otto St., representing the applicant, stated the
applicant is opposed to the first of 10 conditions proposed by the Planning Commission.
Referring to condition #5 concerning the revision made by the City Council with regard
to the stairway, Mr. Chancellor said the applicant is in agreement with the condition
as presented by the Planning Commission.
Discussion followed.
Council Minutesl0/24/72 -1-
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLgreto, and passed by
the following vote to overrule the Planning Commission and adhere to the previous decision
of the City Council to approve Appeal, Zone Exception Case #1072.
AYES:
3
Councilmen:
Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES:
0
Councilmen;
None,
ABSENT:
2
Councilmen:
Temple, Winton
Mr. Scott Temple., 12249 South Rives Avenue, Downey, former Mayo; and Councilman,
representing the Sister City Association, addressed the City Council and presented copies
of a proposed Resolution regarding the Sister City Association, He noted various changes
contained in the Resolution.
After discussion between the Acting City Attorney and Mayor Pro Tem Morton, it was
noted in Section 1 where it refers to the Sister City Program, the word "Program" should
be changed to "Association" for clarification.
RESOLUTION NO. 2738
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ESTABLISHING A DOWNEY-GUADALAJARA SISTER CITY ASSOCIATION
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings,
seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2738 as revised.
AYES:
3
Councilmen:
Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton.
NOES:
0
Councilmen;
None
ABSENT:
2
Councilmen:
Temple, Winton
Mayor Pro Tem Morton referred to a letter from Mr. Robert Wagner requesting
permission to address the City Council.
Mr. Robert Wagner, 8403 Seventh St., requested relief from a fee of $1772.89 imposed
by the City in conformance with the Downey Municipal Code as a result of subdividing his
property into five lots. He said he has put in all of the improvements required by the
City, Mr. Wagner stated inasmuch as dividing property into four lots is not considered
a subdivision and would not require an additional fee, he would request the City Council
give consideration to imposing a fee of $354.48, which is one -fifth of $17.72.89.
Responding to questions by Councilman Jennings, Planning Director Coggin explained
that under a lot split, which is four lots or less, the City would require the same
improvements that are put in under a subdivision, which is five lots or more. He said
the City worked with Mr. Wagner and by agreeing and working out a parcel map, he was
saved additional engineering costs which are inherent to a normal subdivision. In
further explanation, Mr. Coggin stated in order to get approval for a parcel map, the
intent of the ordinance is that all physical improvements are in, and Mr. Wagner put in
the improvements prior to the parcel map.
Answering questions by Councilman DiLoreto, Mr, Coggin said the fee for the sub-
division is imposed at the time of approval of the parcel map and is based upon a
regular schedule proportionate to the number of lots per acre; that had Mr. Wagner sub-
divided into more than five lots, the fee would be a larger amount.
Discussion followed.
It was moved by Councilman DiLoreto, seconded by Councilman Jennings, and passed by
the following vote to approve the fee of $354.58 for subdivision (12250-12268 Orizaba).
AYES:
3
Councilmen:
Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES:
0
Councilmen:
None
ABSENT:
2
Councilmen:
Temple, Winton
LEGAL CLAIMS (for information)
Ref. #057, Gerald Sesslin
Ref. #074, Daniel T. Fox
Ref. #075, Auto Club of Southern California
Ref. #076, Jimmy M. Mendez
Council MinuteslO/24/72 -2-
Acting City Attorney Allen suggested that the City Council reject Legal. Claim #074
in order to free the claimant to file action before the money can be released.
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to deny the legal claim of Daniel T. Fox, Ref. #074.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
ORDINANCE NO, 426
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTIONS 6209, 62102 6236.17 6253(d), AND 6254
OF CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE VII, OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO BUSINESS LICENSING
The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings,
seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to adopt Ordinance No. 426.
AYES:
3
Councilmen:
Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES:
0
Councilmen:
None
ABSENT:
2
Councilmen:
Temple, Winton
RESOLUTION NO. 2736
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
MODIFYING THE SELECT SYSTEM OF STREETS BY CERTAIN ADDI-
TIONS OR DELETIONS
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings,
seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to adopt Reg6iut£on No. 2736,
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, 'Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
RESOLUTION NO. 2737
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
CONSENTING TO ESTABLISHMENT OF PORTION OF GARFIELD AVENUE
WITHIN SAID CITY AS A PART OF THE SYSTEM OF COUNTY
HIGHWAYS OF THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings,
seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2737.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, ,Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded,by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to approve the Participation Agreement on Garfield Avenue TOPICS
Project and authorize the Mayor to sign.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
It was moved by Councilman DiLoreto, seconded by Councilman Jennings, and passed by
the following vote to approve plans and specifications on Garfield Avenue TOPICS Project.
Council Minutes 10/24/72 -3-
AYES:
3
Councilmen:
Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES:
0
Councilmen:
None
ABSENT:
2
Councilmen:
Temple, Winton
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to grant authority to advertise for bids on Garfield Avenue TOPICS
Project,
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen_: Temple, Winton
It was moved by Councilman DiLoreto, seconded by Councilman Jennings, and passed by
the following vote to appropriate $1800 from Account #26-16133 as the City's share of
Garfield Avenue TOPICS Project,
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
RESOLUTION N0, WS-814
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS .AND DEMANDS AND CERTIFYING THE
FUNDS OUT OF WHICH THE SAME ARE TO BE PAID (N0, 56291 -
56816, $2217043.01 -- PAYROLL)
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings,
seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to adopt Resolution No, WS-814,
AYES:
3
Councilmen:
Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES:
0
Councilmen:
None
ABSENT:
2
Councilmen:
Temple, Winton
RESOLUTION N0, WS-815
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AND CERTIFYING THE
FUNDS OUT OF WHICH THE SAME ARE TO BE PAID (NO, 21803 -
21966, $78,020.71)
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings,
seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and so ordered to waive further reading,
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman. DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to adopt Resolution No, WS-815,
AYES:
3
Councilmen:
Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES:
0
Councilmen:
None
ABSENT:
2
Councilmen:
Temple, Winton
Cash Contract #SS-264, S/W Corner, Firestone Blvd,/Old River School Road
Responding tb-a question by Councilman Jennings regarding the necessity of an Environ-
mental Impact Report, Acting City Attorney Allen commented if it is determined the
project would have a significant effect on the environment, the City Council should not
call for bids, and should it be determined it would not have a significant effect, the
City Council should make that finding. He said City Attorney Sorensen, with the
Department of Public Works, has worked out a schedule of the items that would not have a
significant effect on the environment; that should the City Council desire to make a
finding on this project, it would be appropriate.
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to make a negative finding on the Environmental Impact Report, approve
plans and specifications, and grant authority to advertise for bids on Cash Contract
#SS-2649 S/W Corner,Firestone Blvd,/Old River School Road,
Council Minutes 10/24/72 -4-
AYES: 3 Councilmen; Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
Cash Contract #325 Nature Museum at Wilderness Park
Public Works Director Spindel explained an Environmental Impact Study has been
prepared to present to the Planning Commission at its next meeting on the entire
Wilderness Park project, He said it would be presented to the City Council at the time
of awarding the contract.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Morton, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote, subject to an Environmental Impact Report being submitted to the
City Council, to approve plans and specifications and grant authority to advertise for
bids on Cash Contract #325, Nature Museum at Wilderness Park.
Discussion followed regarding soil tests that were made, as well as the amount
budgeted for this fiscal year for the Wilderness Park project.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
Following a summation of bids, it was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by
Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by the following vote to award Cash Contract #317,
True Avenue between Blandwood Rd. and Telegraph Rd., in the amount of the unit prices
bid, to Sully -Miller Contracting Co, of Long Beach, the lowest and best bidder, and to
reject all other bids.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Morton, and passed
by the following vote to accept the improvements completed in conjunction with Cash
— Contract #248, Wilderness Park Preliminary Site Grading, and the responsibility for
maintenance thereof.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to accept the improvements completed in conjunction with Cash Contract
#297, Miscellaneous Repairs, and the responsibility for maintenance thereof.
AYES:
3
Councilmen:
Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES:
0
Councilmen:
None
ABSENT:
2
Councilmen:
Temple, Winton
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to accept the improvements completed in conjunction with Cash Contract
#318, Unit 1, Pangborn Avenue, and the responsibility for maintenance thereof.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
Cash Contract #327, Downey Rio Hondo Golf Course Irrigation System
Responding to questions by the City Council, Public Works Director Spindel stated
the plans for the irrigation system submitted by the consultant have been reviewed to
see if it is a workable system, and it has been determined that it is. However, he said,
the estimates have not been reviewed as yet.
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to approve plans and specifications and grant authority to advertise
for bids on Cash Contract #327, Downey Rio Hondo Golf Course Irrigation System.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
Council Minutes 10/24/72 -5-
Mayor Pro Tem Morton stated Mr. Morris Brown may meet with the City Attorney,
Building d Safety Director Lake and Planning Director Goggin.
Mayor Pro Tem Morton declared a recess at 9:05 a.m. The meeting resumed at
9:14 a.m., with Councilmen Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton present; Councilmen Temple and
Winton absent.
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to approve Sidewalk Matching Funds at the following locations:
Estimated
M.F. No. Add, Tess City Cost
161 8744 Donovan Street $ 446.00
162 7818 Brookmill Road 78.00
163 8731 Alameda Street (Marbel Avenue
frontage) 222.00
164 8614 Cavel Street (Patton Road frontage) 141.00
165 9022 Hasty Avenue 98.00
166 9222 Sideview Drive 95.00
167 8138 Cole Street (Orizaba Avenue
frontage) 258.00
168 9203 Sideview Drive 98.00
169 9252 Sideview Drive 591.00
Total Estimated City Cost $ 2,027.00
Councilman Jennings requested a memorandum from the Public Works Director to the
City Council regarding the entire cost to the City to date for Sidewalk Matching Funds,
since inception of the program, including the Street Lighting Program.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to approve Yield Sign Removal, Ryerson Avenue at Benares Street,
3ulius Avenue at Luxor Street, and pavement markings at the subject intersections.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote to approve Agreement between City of Downey and 2eke Avila and Sons
for Golf Course Maintenance and authorize the Mayor to e:tecute on behalf of the City.
AYES: 3 Councilmen: Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
NOES: 0 Councilmen: None
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen: Temple, Winton
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
Assistant City Manager Robison commented on a Request £or Driveway Apron at 8040
Che�nne Avenue, which was verbally submitted by Mr, Westerman at the City Council meet -
in,
of October 9th. He said it has been the City's policy not to approve construction
of a driveway unless it leads to a proper parking area. The following alternatives were
submitted for Council consideration:
a. Hold Mr, Westerman's case in abeyance until the Code may be amended and a
variance considered,
b. Under the present ordinances, Mr. Westerman could file for a zone exception to
construct the driveway.
c. Order the driveway next door to be closed.
Councilman Jennings stated he is not in favor of the alternatives proposed, and if
the driveway apron next door to Mr. Westerman was put in by mistake of the City, then
the City should remove it.
Council Minutes 10/24/72 -6-
Councilman DiLoreto commented there are problems with getting into the garage area
located behind Mr, Westerman's home, inasmuch as the alley is narrow. He suggested that
the City Council take this matter under submission and proceed with an ordinance which
would give the City the authority to act in cases of hardship.
Discussion followed.
Acting City Attorney Allen said if the City Council adopts an amendment, the owner
of the other driveway could be notified that the City will close the driveway unless he
applies for a permit, which would avoid the physical problem of doing and undoing the
driveway.
There being no objections, it was so ordered to take the matter under submission
and refer it over to Planning Director Goggin and Public Works Director Spindel.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Phil Walsh, 402 North Highland, Fullerton, owner of Tentative Tract #20796,
requested the City Council to approve the map today that was taken under submission at
the last Council meeting.
Planning Director Goggin stated an Environmental Impact Statement has been submitted
by the applicant to the Planning Commission and has been referred to the City Attorney.
Acting City Attorney Allen spoke regarding City Attorney Sorensen's opinion on the
Environmental Impact Statement. He said it is Mr. Sorensen's opinion that the Statement
proposed is an appropriate basis if the City Council would be inclined to find that there
would be no significant effect on the environment, but that the Statement does not meet
the requirements of an Environmental Impact Report under the State law. Mr. Allen read
the Statement as presented by the applicant,
Mr. Allen suggested that if the City Council desires it would be appropriate to
accept the Environmental Impact Statement, order it filed, and by motion determine that
the proposed 52-unit condominium will rot have a significant effect on the environment.
He said he is not, however, in a position to advise the Council whether or not this
development will have a significant effect or the environment.
Planning Director Goggin stated since the building permit has been issued for a
52-unit apartment house, which was approved and designed to conform to condominium
approval, he does rot feel there would be anymore impact whether these were rental or
ownership units. However, he said, ownership units would have less impact than an
apartment house because there would be a guarantee of maintenance.
It was moved by Councilman Jer_rirgs, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Morton, and passed by
the following vote to accept the Environmental Impact Statement as having Tess than a
trivial effect on the environment and approve the subdivision of Tentative Tract #20796.
Councilman DiLoreto stated in his opinion the Environmental Impact Report addressed
itself to only two of the six issues raised by the Supreme Court.
Acting City Attorney Allen mentioned that if the City Council does make a finding
that this will not have a significant effect on the environment, an Environmental Impact
Report will not be needed, He said it is Mr. Sorensen's view, as well as his own, that
the Statement submitted does not meet the requirements of an Environmental Impact Report.
Discussion followed.
Roll call vote:
AYES:
2
Councilmen:
Jennings, Morton
NOES:
1
Councilmen:
DiLoreto
ABSENT:
2
Councilmen:
Temple, Winton
Mr. Norman E. Horney, 9102 Angell St., Downey, addressed the City Council in protest
to a permit that was issued to Campus Life to operate three haunted houses on Ratliffe
Street in Downey. He said the houses are owned by the State and any use authorized by
the State in the City, in his opinion, would be in violation of the Agreement between the
City and State. Mr. Horney referred to the various traffic violations that have occurred,
as well as existing litter and damage to shrubbery.
Council Minutes 10/24/72 -7-
Councilman DiLoreto explained he had been informed by the City Manager that a letter
was sent to the person in charge of the haunted house exhibit, advising the City had no
objection on the basis the pity ?:ad Rio authority to intervene,
Mr. Horney requested some of the City Departments to view the area,
Police Chief Morgan commented he had a complete file of letters written on this
matter, and Mr, Thompson's Letter agreed to the use under conditions approved by the
State that it in no way affect the Agreement between the City and State,
Mr, Horney requested the City Attorney look into the matter,
Mayor Pro Tem Morton requested the Chief of Police, Public Works Director, and
Building & Safety Director to check the area,
Mr, Morris Brown, 1019 Carroll, Los Angeles 90069, stated he purchased the property
at the corner of Florence and Haledon, and under Zone Exception Case #954, a 42-unit
apartment building was approved for construction an the property. He said he requested
the 42 units be reduced to 36; that he received approval from the Planning Department
and at the same time was informed his plans must be ;' rT, ..u,.m_tted nrior to tb.e expiration
date of September 16th. Mr. Bros, explained he submi* ed :he plans on hae;ast 10th,
however, the plans were not given back to him of the oSan the t.- until September l9th,,
three days after the expiration date.. tie said ne made tTfie necc-ssary corrections and re-
submitted the plans, at which time he was Informed a permit. could, not be issued inasrrjch
as the date had expired, and he asked If anvthinC could e clone,
Acting City Attorney Allen spoke regarding his diS_uSSion during recess with Mr.
Brown, the Planning Director, and Building & Safety Director, He said he had advised
the Building Director and Planning Director that if plans are submitted prior to the
date and if the plans are in perfect order, the applicant is entitled to his permit,
ndtwithstanding the fact the department doesn't get around to checking them.
Discussion followed,
It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman DiLoreto, and passed by
the following vote that a permit be issued under Zone Exception Case #954, corner of
Florence and Haledon, providing it meets all of the requirements except the time limit.
Mayor Pro Tem Morton stated he is not in accord with the project' inasmuch as 36
units will overdensify the area However, he said, under the circumstances, it appears
this matter was not properly handled, Mayor Pro Tem Morton inquired if this project
would require an impact study,.
Acting City Attorney Allen commented that all the City Council needs to concern
itself with is the time limit. He said the question of whether the apartment house of
36 units requires an Environmental Impact Report depends on whether it will have a
significant effect on the environment and is not resolvable as a legal matter, but is a
factual matter, Mr. Allen stated it would be appropriate for the City Council to make a
determination that it does or does not effect the environment, He inquired regarding
the City's procedure for issuing permits.
Building & Safety Director Lake responded permits are issued in conformance with
resolutions passed by the City Council, and a statement is printed across the top of
the permit stating the permit is issued in conformance to the resolutions,
Acting City Attorney Allen said under City practices if the Council waives the time
limit the environmental impact question will still have to be processed -#fi the customary
manner,
Mayor Pro Tem Morton remarked that in his opinion there is an environmental impact,
inasmuch as this project is contiguous to a re8idential area. Speaking to the matter of
the time limit, Mayor Pro Tem Morton said the plans were submitted within the time
specified and the fact they were not acted upon in time was not Mr. Brown's fault,
however, the project is subject to an environmental impact study.
Roll call vote:
AYES: 3 Councilmen:
NOES: 0 Councilmen:
ABSENT: 2 Councilmen:
Jennings, DiLoreto, Morton
None
Temple, Winton
Council Minutes 10/24/72 -8-
Planning Director Goggin commented by Thursday proposed guidelines for an impact
study will be submitted to the City Attorney. He said if approved by the City Attorney,
they will be submitted to the Planning Commissio4 for approval. Mr. Goggin commented if
the guidelines are approved, then there will be a basis for submitted 'Environmental
Impact Reports.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was
adjourned at 10:05 a.m.
ROBERT L. SHAN , CITY CLERK DO AL�1 D H. WSNTONa MAYOR
Council Minutes 10/24/72 -9-