HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-01-14-74-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
JANUARY 14, 1974
T A B L E O F M I N U T E A C T I O N S
SUBJECT:
Resolution #2892, Ordering Vacation of a
Portion of Nada St. known as Future & Private
Resolution #2893, Confirming Assmt. for
Chapter 27 for DIP #638-A, W/s Brookshire
S/o Otto St.
Adoption of National Electrical Code, 1971_
Edition - Public Hearing closed
Minutes, December 26, 1973
Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Report for
10/1 - 12/31/73 & Request for Funds per Agmt.
Fees to Election Officials for General
Municipal Election, April 9, 1974
Petition re Street Barricading bounded by
Paramount & Downey, Adoree & Gardendale
Appointment of Mrs. Donna Engle to Rose
Float Assn.
Comm. from Downey Firemen's Assn.
Legal Claims (for Council action)
Ref. #139, Thomas James Hansen
Ref, #141, Joe Goldstein
Legal Claims (for information only)
Ref. #142, United Pacific Reliance Co.
for Albert Patchell, et a1
Ordinance #447, Granting Determinate Franchise
to Atlantic Richfield Co. for Flammable Liquid
Pipelines Within City
Ordinance, Amending DMC Adding Sec. 4103.1
re Alcoholic Beverages
Resolution #2895, Calling & Giving Notice
of General Municipal Election on Tuesday,
April 9, 1974
Resolution #2896, Requesting Bd. Sprvsrs.
to Permit Registrar of Voters to Render
Specified Services to City re Conduct of
General Municipal Election April 9, 1974
Resolution #2897, Urging Calif. Coastal Zone
_ Comm. to Rescind Previous Decision to Deny
Expansion of San Onofre Nuclear Generating
Plant & Grant Approval for further dev.
General Warrants #28798 - 28893, 28894 -
29007, & #29008 - 29151
CC #338, Benares St.
CC #SS-272, Stewart & Gray Rd. - Acceptance
of improvements and extra work
Page 1 of 2
ACTION•
Adopted
Adopted
Approved
Approved as provided in Budget
Approved
Ordered filed; citizens spoke
in opposition
Approved
Referred to City Manager
Denied
No action
Adopted
Introduced
Adopted
Adopted
Adopted
Approved
PAGE NO.
Taken under submission to 2/11/74
Approved
1
3
3, 8
3
3
4
4
5
5
5
5
5
6
6
6
7
7
7
VA
COUNCIL MINUTES JANUARY 14, 1974
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
---
SUBJECT:
ACTION:
PAGE NO.
DIP #650, N/s Stewart & Gray Rd. between
Old River School Rd. & Pomering Rd. - Auth.
Chapter 27 proceedings & Sidewalk Match. Funds
Approved
7
Weed Abatement Schedule for 1974
Ordered filed
7
Fuel Shortage & Energy Crisis
Report by City Manager
7
Bi-Weekly Street Sweeping Program - Report
back every 60 days; sweeper employees to
clean slots in cross gutters
Approved
8
Transfer of funds to meet fuel needs of City
Approved
8
Use of Prisoners on City Projects
City Manager to check into
program further
8
Ordinance Amending Sections of thesDMC,
Adding Sec. 8406.1 & Adopting by Reference
the 1971 National Electrical Code
Re -Introduced
9
Resolution #2894, Adopting Express Findings'
Regarding Modification of National Electrical
Code
Adopted
9
Resignation and Vacation of Mayor's position
10
Mayor Pro Tem Richard Jennings Elected
Mayor of the City of Downey
10
Councilman Joseph DiLoreto Elected as Mayor
Pro Tempore of the City of Downey
10
Page 2 of 2
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
JANUARY 14, 1974
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m.,
January 14, 1974, in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Thomas H.
Morton presiding.
PRESENT: Councilmen: Joseph E. DiLoreto, Richard M. Jennings, Walter S.
Temple, Donald H. Winton, Thomas H. Morton
Absent: None
ALSO PRESENT: Charles W. Thompson, City Manager
Donald B. Robison, Assistant City Manager
Royal M. Sorensen,City Attorney
Ervin Spindel, Director of Community Development
Richard D. Patton, Director of Finance
James D. Ruth, Director of Parks d Recreation
William A. Goggin, City Planner
Ray Lake, Building Official
Loren D. Morgan, Police Chief
Edwin H. Wood, Fire Chief
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
Judy McDonnell, Executive Secretary
The Invocation was delivered by Reverend Percival Henkelman, Moravian Church of
Downey, followed by the Flag Salute led by Councilman Richard Jennings.
Mayor Thomas Morton recognized former Mayor and Councilman, Joseph Ferris,
Mayor Thomas Morton declared that this is the time and place for the public hearing
on Vacation of a Portion of Nada Street known as Future and Private. He inquired if the
City Clerk had the Affidavit of Publication and Affidavit of Posting of Notice, to which
the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
so ordered to receive and file the Affidavits.
Community 'Development Director Ervin Spindel reported this was designated as a
future and private street when the subdivision was accepted for the future extension of
Nada Street, He said, however, because of the development of the property to the west,
Nada Street will never be extended through and the ,property owner has requested this be
vacated;
Mayor Morton inquired if the City Clerk had received any written correspondence,
and the City Clerk replied he had not.
Mayor Morton inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in opposition
to the Vacation, and there was no response. He inquired if there was anyone present who
wished to speak in favor, and there was no response.
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton.,
and so ordered to close the hearing.
RESOLUTION NO. 2892
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ORDERING THE VACATION OF A PORTION OF NADA STREET KNOWN
AS FUTURE AND PRIVATE
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings,
seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple,
and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2892.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
Mayor Thomas Morton declared that this is the time and place for the public hearing
on Downey Improvement Project No. 638-A, West side Brookshire Avenue South of Otto Street.
Council Minutes 1/14/74 -1-
P
He inquired if the City Clerk had the Affidavit of Posting of Notice and Mailing, to
which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
so ordered to receiveandfile the Affidavit.
Mayor Morton inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or objec-
tions to the improvements, and the City Clerk replied he had not.
Community Development Director Ervin Spindel reported on the improvements. He said
the total cash assessment is $1,342.43; total interest commencing February 1, 1974 to
November 1, 1974, is $66.94; and the total amount to be collected is $1,409.37. Mr,
Spindel stated ordinarily at the option of the Council the property owner is given the
opportunity to pay off in ten installments. However, in this case, since there was a
condemnation action. and the value of the Land exceeds the amount of the assessment, it
is recommended the amount be paid in one lump sum.
It was moved. by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
so ordered to accept the report of the City Engineer.
Mayor Morton inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in. protest to
the improvements,
Mr. Jim Callahan, 10025 Brookshire Avenue, the property owner, protested the amount
of money and said he did not request the sidewalks. He stated he is agreeable to the
curb but is protesting the sidewalks. Mr. Callahan commented there is a sidewalk to the
south of his property, but there are no sidewalks to the north.
Mr. Spindel explained Mr. Callahan was notified of the improvements and of the public
hearing of July 9, 1973. He said it was pointed out at the hearing that there would be
sidewalks on more than 50% of the block and, therefore, provisions of Chapter 27 would
apply. Mr. Spindel indicated at the Council Meeting of March 12, 1973, condemnation pro-
ceedings were authorized by the Council for sufficient right-of-way for sidewalk
construction.
Mr. Callahan remarked he was notified of the curbs to be installed, but not the
- sidewalks.
It was noted Mr. Callahan was notified of the improvements by letter dated June 12,
1973, Which .specifically called out PCC curbs and gutters, sidewalks, driveway apron,
and appurtenant work thereto. A notice of improvement was posted on the property and
specifically called out the improvements. Copies of the letter and notice are on file
in the office of the City Clerk.
City Attorney Royal Sorensen referred to discussions he had with Mr. Callahan"s
attorney, which, were related to the condemnation action and not the Chapter 27 proceed-
ings. He said a complaint was filed with the Court and an Order of Immediate Possession
was obtained for the acquisition of a certain width strip of land; that an amendment was
made to the complaint to take a wider strip for sidewalk purposes.
Mr. Callahan pointed out that the sidewalk area is less than 10 feet from his front
window, which will make it impossible to carry on normal living conditions,
Mr. Sorensen mentioned this was taken into account in the condemnation matter, and
the element of damages was based in part upon that. He said moneys are on deposit with
the Court.
Councilman Joseph DiLoreto inquired if Mr. Callahan would be eligible for sidewalk
matching funds, The City Manager replied matching funds have been allocated as an
incentive for property owners to go ahead with sidewalk improvements where there is
existing right-of-way.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
so ordered to close the hearing.
It was moved by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto and seconded by Councilman Walter Temple
to approve Downey Improvement Project No. 638-A West side Brookshire Avenue South of
Otto Street, with the exception that the portion which represents the sidewalks be
allocated and the total amount be reduced proportionately in accordance with the sidewalk.
matching fund policy.
Council Minutes 1/14/74 -2-
Mayor Morton noted this property owner has been requested many times to voluntarily
cooperate in improving the area because of a serious water problem, and a number of
citizens from that area had appeared before the City Council requesting action.
AYES: 1 Councilmen: DiLoreto
NOES: 4 Councilmen: Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
Motion failed.
RESOLUTION NO. 2893
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
CONFIRMING THE ASSESSMENT FOR CHAPTER 27 PROCEEDINGS
FOR DOWNEY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 638-A, WEST SIDE OF
BROOKSHIRE AVENUE, SOUTH OF OTTO STREET
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings,
seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton,
and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2893,
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
Mayor Thomas Morton declared that this is the time and place for the public hearing
on Adoption of National Electrical Code 1971 Edition. He inquired if the City Clerk
had the Affidavit of Publication, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
so ordered to receive and file the Affidavit.
Mayor Morton inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or objec-
tions, and the City Clerk replied he had not.
Mayor Morton inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in opposition
to the National Electrical Code, 1971 Edition, and there was no response. He inquired
if there was anyone present who wished .to speak in favors and there was no response,
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter 'Temple, and
so ordered to close the hearing.
For clarification, Councilman Temple inquired if a new position will be created
because of this, and the City Manager replied there will not.
The Council raised questions regarding Paragraph 2.1 Page 4. It was pointed out
a person could not place more than one electrical fixture on the same wall.
Building Official Ray Lake said it means electrical fixtures of the same type.
Following discussion, the matter was taken under submission. (See later action
Page 9 ),
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
so ordered to approve the Minutes of the City Council Meeting of December 26, 1973..
Communication from Mrs. Charles E. Beasley extending Appreciation to the Department.
of Community Development. Ordered filed,
Communication from Downey Chamber of Commerce regarding Quarterly Report for
October 1 - December 31, 1973 and Request for Funds per Agreement.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto'
and passed by the following vote to approve the quarterly allocation as provided in the
budget.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
Communication from City of Covina regarding Expansion of San Onofre Nuclear
Generating Station. Ordered filed,
Council Minutes 1/14/74 -3-
Communication from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors regarding Senior
Citizen Social Service Program. Ordered filed. Mayor Thomas Morton suggested the City
Council may want to study this matter and refer it to Councilman Jennings,
Communication from Public Utilities Commission regarding Application #53974 of
General 'Telephone Company for Authority to Increase Certain Rates and Charges in Sc
Cal. P.U.C. 4A-24, Telephone Answerin¢ Service.. Ordered filed.
Communication from City Clerk -Treasurer requesting Council approval of the following
Fees to Election Officials for the General Municipal Election of April 9, 1974.
Inspector $21.00
Judge 18.00
Clerk. 18.00
Clerk $18.00
Polling Place Rent 18.00
School Custodian 8.00
It was moved by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple,
and passed by the following vote to approve Fees to Election Officials for the General
Municipal Election of April 9, 1974.
AYES, 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
Communication from Walter J. Pasner regarding Commendation to Library Staff.
Ordered filed.
Communication from Lee J. York regarding Appreciation to Police Department. Ordered
filed.
Comrrmu.ni.cation from Public Utilities Commission regarding Energy and Fuel Require-
ments and Supplies. Ordered filed.
Communication from Mrs. Ruth Cooley regarding Petition protesting Street Barricading
bounded by Paramount Boulevard and Downey Avenue, Adoree Street. and Gardendale Street.
Ordered filed.
For the benefit of the citizens present concerning the petition, Mayor Thomas Morton
asked. Councilman Jennings to give a status report on this program.
Councilman Richard. Jennings explained in the process of preparing as assessment
district, it was decided to experiment to see if any method could be devised to keep
through traffic out of that area and restrict it to residential use only. He said a
public meeting was advertised and held and the City presented several different plans
for temporary barricading in that district to attempt to determine whether any of the
plans would work and whether any were wanted by the citizens in the area; that it. was
the concensus of the people who attended the meeting to try the barricades on a 30-day
basis. Councilman Jennings indicated the City went ahead on that basis, with maps
sent to the residents showing where the barricades would be placed, and the first plan
was in conformance with the wishes of the majority of those attending the meeting.
Councilman Jennings said over 30 days has elapsed, the barricades have been moved, and
letters and maps have been sent out to the residents in that area informing them of the
second phase of.' the barricading.
Councilman Jennings- commented further that at the end of the next 30®day period
another public meeting will be held, and it is hoped there will be a large turn -out
so that the City can find out what the people in that district think of the different
methods of: barricading, or no barricades at all. He asked for citizen cooperation
both during the barricading and after and said a decision cannot be made without
citizen opinion, and he will abide by the majority.
Mayor Morton indicated he has received calls from citizens concerning the barri-
cades and stated this is strictly a temporary situation for experimental purposes to
keep out commercial vehicles. He said this has been attempted by the Councilman of that
district to not only solve a problem but to upgrade the level of the residential area.
Mayor Morton. inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak to the matter.
He reminded those present that this is not a public hearing and no determination will be
made this evening.
The following people spoke in opposition to the barricades,
Walter C. Larson, 8119 Devenir Avenue
Joan Whitman
Council Minutes 1/14J74 -4-
Enna Morrison, 8134 Comolette Avenue
Jack Mitcham., 8120 Comolette Avenue
Responding to a statement regarding the lack of street lights on Comolette, Mayor
Morton said every corner in the City is programmed for safety lights. He stated lights
up and down the street is a matter of local assessment, and every street where there
are lights has been done by local assessment district, with the exception of safety
lights at intersections.
Communication from Councilman Joseph DiLoreto regarding Appointment of Mrs. Donna
Engle to the Rose Float Association. It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded
by Councilman Richard Jennings, and so ordered to approve the appointment.
Mayor Thomas Morton commented on a letter received this day from the Downey Firemen's
Association, There being no objections, this matter was referred to the City Manager to
report back at the next meeting.
LEGAL CLAIMS (for Council action)
Ref. #139, Thomas James Hansen
Ref. #141, Joe Goldstein
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
so ordered to deny the legal claims of Thomas James Hansen and Joe Goldstein.
LEGAL CLAIMS (for information only)
Ref. #142, United Pacific Reliance Co. for Albert Patchell, et al
ORDINANCE NO. 447
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
GRANTING A DETERMINATE FRANCHISE TO THE ATLANTIC
RICHFIELD COMPANY FOR FLAMMABLE LIQUID PIPELINES WITHIN
THE CITY.
The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings,
seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton,
and passed by the following vote to adopt Ordinance No. 447.
AYES; 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITYCOUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING THERETO
SECTION 4103,1 RELATING TO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
The Ordinance was read by title only,
Councilman .Joseph DiLoreto asked if this Ordinance would allow the use of the Green
Room at the Downey Theatre for activities such as wedding receptions and also allow
alcoholic beverages to be served.
City Manager Charles Thompson replied yes. He inquired if it was the Council's
intent to provide this for the Civic Center, including the Green Room at the Theatre,
and the Rio Hondo Country Club.
Councilman Walter Temple indicated this Ordinance is too broad-, that it would en-
compass everything under the discretion of the City, and alcohol could be served at any
of the public places. He said although he does agree there should be an Ordinance to
cover the Golf Course, and he is in favor of serving champagne punch or something of
that nature at the Downey Theatre for private parties, he is very much against serving
mixed drinks at the Theatre, He stated he would like to see the Ordinance amended or
rewritten,
City Attorney Royal Sorensen indicated there would have to be a licensee or a person
authorized to cater a particular function. such as a special function. at the civic
auditorium.
Mayor Thomas Morton. agreed the language is too broad, He said the way the Ordinance
is worded it could even permit catering at the Downey Museum or Wilderness Park, and he
Council Minutes 1/14/74 -5-
would oppose catering of any type of alcohol at any park or in any other public building
other than the Golf Course.
Discussion followed regarding what would be permitted under the Ordinance,
Councilman Richard Jennings remarked he would not want to introduce an Ordinance
until he saw rules and regulations by which the City would abide,
Mayor Morton pointed out that there is a problem with the Golf Course and techni-
cally the City is operating in violation. He said the Council should proceed to have
the wording of the Ordinance changed to permit the Golf Course to continue in operation
and then, bring back a later amendment which can be done at a subsequent time.
Section 4103.1, line 4, after the word "beverages" was changed to read: .,,,s'at
the Rio Hondo Golf Course when alcoholic beverages are dispensed thereon,,.,,,"
The Ordinance was re -read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Richard
Jennings, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton,
and passed by the following vote to introduce the Ordinance,
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
Councilman Jennings asked the Park & Recreation Director through the Commission to
come back with a set of rules and regulations that the Council can approve or disapprove
before going into that part of a new Ordinance.
RESOLUTION N0, 2895
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY,
CALIFORNIA, CALLING AND GIVING NOTICE OF THE HOLDING OF
A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD IN SAID CITY ON
TUESDAY, THE 9TH DAY OF APRIL, 1974, FOR THE ELECTION
OF CERTAIN OFFICERS OF SAID CITY AS REQUIRED BY THE
PROVISIONS OF THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton.,
seconded by Councilman Richard Jennings, and so ordered to wa.ive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
passed by the fcllowing vote to adopt Resolution. No, 2895,
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Wanton, Morton.
RESOLUTION NO, 2896
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF 'DOWNEY
REQUESTING THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF
LOS ANGELES TO PERMIT THE REGISTRAR OF VOTERS OF SAID
COUNTY TO RENDER SPECIFIED SERVICES TO THE CITY OF
DOWNEY, RELATING TO THE CONDUCT OF A GENERAL MUNICIPAL
ELECTION TO BE HELD IN SAID CITY ON APRIL 9, 1974
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton,
seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No, 2896,
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton.
RESOLUTION N0, 2897
A. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY'
URGING THE CALIFORNIA COASTAL ZONE COMMISSION TO
RESCIND ITS PREVIOUS DECISION TO DENY EXPANSION OF THE
SAN ONOFRE NUCLEAR GENERATING PLANT AND GRANT IMMEDIATE
APPROVAL FOR THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF THIS GENERATING
STATION,
Council Minutes 1/14/74 -6-
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings,
seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple,
and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2897.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton,
and passed by the following vote to approve General Warrants #28798 - 28893, $187,569.80;
#28894 - 29007, $256,909.81; and #29008 - 29151, $115,450.54.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
Councilman Jennings commented to the Finance Director that he highly approves of the
new method of presenting the warrants.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Richard Jennings, and
passed by the following vote to take Cash Contract #338, Benares Street, under submission
until the regular meeting of February 11, 1974.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Richard Jennings,
and passed by the following vote to accept the improvements completed under Cash Contract
#SS-272, Stewart and Gray Road, approve extra work in the amount of $280.70,.and accept
the responsibility for maintenance thereof.
AYES- 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings,
and passed by the following vote to authorize the
for the construction of sidewalks on Downey Impro
Stewart and Gray Road between Old River School Ro
seconded by Councilman Walter Temple,
initiation of Chapter 27 proceedings
ement Project No. 650, North side of
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
approve
The Weed Abatement Schedule for the calendar year 1974 was ordered filed.
Mayor Thomas Morton declared a recess at 8:40 p.m. The meeting resumed at 8:55 p.m.
with all Councilmen present.
Mayor Morton mentioned following the City ManagerBs Report, the City Attorney has
indicated he would like to meet with the Council concerning a legal matter.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager Charles Thompson reported on the Fuel Shortage and Energy Crisis as it
effects the municipal operations. He called the Council°s attention. to the fact that
the allocation made to the City in July and August of this fiscal year were 15,500
gallons. In January the City received 11,092 gallons, and the same is expected
February, which is 4400 gallons per month reduction.
Mr. Thompson referred to the previous recommendation for Bi-Weekly Street Sweeping
Program, which the Council took under advisement, and stated the program would save
approximately 800 gallons of fuel per month. He said this would not curtail the value
of the service, the program would be kept under close surveillance, and should it occur
that additional sweepings are necessary, it could be undertaken.
Emphasizing the increase in gasoline prices, Mr. Thompson noted that the last fiscal
year the City was paying approximately 15C per gallon, with indications the City may be
paying more shortly. He said as a result of this, he is requesting a $15,000 increase
in the supplemental appropriation in order to provide funds necessary to meet the fuel
needs for the City.
Responding to questions, Mr. Thompson explained propane is also paid for out of
this account, and propane was not utilized by the City last year. He stated the use of
propane has gone up considerably.
Discussion followed.
Council Minutes 1/14/74 -7-
Mr, Thompson further explained if there is an overage in. the account it will lapse
as an unexpended balance. He stated fuel is the only expenditure for that account.
Councilman Richard Jennings requested the two actions in the City Manager's Report
be divided into separate motions. He indicated he is not against reducing street sweep-
ing to a bi-weekly schedule providing it is brought back to the Council every 60 days,
and if the gas shortage eases, it be brought back to a weekly basis in residential areas.
Councilman Jennings also requested that the people who are idled by the lack of street
sweeping be used to clean slots in cross gutters exclusively until every slot in the
City has been cleaned.
Public Works Director Ervin Spindel replied the City would need more manpower than
it presently has to make sure every slot in the City is cleaned on a regular basis,
however, it is the City's intention to use an equivalent amount of manpower to clean
the slots.
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple,
and passed by the following vote to approve Bi-Weekly Street Sweeping Program; that it
be brought back to the Council every 60 days; and, that the employees idled by the lack
of street sweeping be used to clean slots in cross gutters exclusively.
Councilman Temple requested the City Manager to report to the Council on the fuel
savings accomplished, particularly with regard to City vehicles. Mr. Thompson said a
close check is being kept on this, and there is some indication of future difficulty
with the fuel situation.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton,
and passed by the following vote to approve the following transfer of funds as a result
of gasoline price increases:
Amount From To
$15,000 General Fund Balance 10 171 Equipment Fund 62 572
Mr. Thompson was asked by Councilman DiLoreto if $15,000 was a realistic figure.,
He said it is probably a little more than will be used unless there are two increases,
however, it was felt by doing this there wouldn't be the need to come back for an addi-
tional supplemental appropriation.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
Mr. Thompson stated as requested he has investigated the Use of Sentenced Prisoners
on City Projects and the problems are two -fold: (1) The location of the South Gate
jail, which is the nearest jail where prisoners could be held for any extended period
of time and additional expense in the transportation and supervision requirements; and
(2) Prisoners are usually bailed out so that they are not incarcerated for any extended
period of time. Mr. Thompson said this program would not prove to be feasible under
the City's situation.
Councilman Joseph DiLoreto commented he had seen a program work in several Cities,
whereby in lieu of serving four or five weekends in the County Jail for an offense, a
person would be assigned to a City on a Friday or Saturday, during the daytime only, to
work eight or nine hours, then go home, and report back the -next day, and no incarcera-
tion or transportation would be involved. He said if the person did not show up, it
would be reported to the Court. He mentioned this program has proved effective, people
are accepting it, and there is very little supervision involved.
Mr. Thompson indicated he would check into the program further.
Referring to questions raised earlier in the meeting regarding the National
Electrical Code, 1971 Edition, Building Official Ray Lake indicated the section in ques-
tion applies specifically to existing installations, and any electric code requires in
residential buildings that each room be wired with a certain number of electrical outlets
or receptacles and that they be separated a minimum number of feet. He said, therefore,
any particular room may have three or more electrical outlets, and anything in these
structures that has been inspected over the years and found safe can be left the way it
is. However, Mr. Lake mentioned, in any existing residential building where repairs are
required due to some deficiency or Fire Department or Building b Safety Department survey,
then all zip cords put in where there aren's enough electrical outlets applied have to
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be removed and replaced with the required number of outlets according to the table that
is specified to provide a minimum of service.
Mayor Thomas Morton inquired if a person could put more receptacles on one wall
than what was actually required. Mr. Lake replied yes, as Long as the minimum number
was placed around the room.
Following discussion, Paragraph 2, on Page 4 of the Ordinance was amended by
inserting the words "minimum required" after the word "such".
0
City Attorney Royal Sorensen suggested if agreeable, the Council could re -introduce
the Ordinance and adopt it at the next meeting.
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTIONS 8400, 8405, 8410, 8411, 8415, 8419,
8421 AND 8430 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE, ADDING
SECTION 8406.1 AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 1971
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings,
seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Richard Jennings, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple,
and passed by the following vote to re -introduce the Ordinance.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
RESOLUTION NO. 2894
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ADOPTING EXPRESS FINDINGS REGARDING MODIFICATION OF THE
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton,.,
seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton., seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2894.
AYES; 5 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Jennings, Temple, Winton, Morton
Mayor Thomas Morton recessed the meeting to executive session at 9:20 p.m. to
discuss a Legal matter with the City Attorney. The meeting resumed at 9:25 p.m. with.
all Councilmen present.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Thomas Morton spoke regarding his term as Mayor this past year, and he ex-
tended his appreciation to the City Manager, Department Heads, and Staff for their help.
He remarked on the accomplishments of this past year and indicated it was a thrill to
serve as Downey's Mayor during its Centennial year. Mayor Morton said Downey is pre-
dominately a residential City, and it is hoped that the thrust of the City Council, the
City Council in the future, and future City Councils will be in the direction of
maintaining the quality level of the residential areas, the protection of the homeowner,
the protection of a man°s investment in his home, the upholding of the family status,
and maintaining the moral fibre of this City so that Downey continues to be a City and
it can be proud of its achievement and at the same time provide a climate in which
people can raise a family and know the City Council is not only concerned about govern-
ment and expenditures, but at the same time is concerned about the residential areas
and the protection of those areas from encroachment by commercial businesses, by
overbearing apartments, making sure the alcohol problem is kept away from residential
areas, and to maintain the strength of the moral fibre for this community.
Mayor Morton expressed his appreciation to members of the Press for giving the
Council excellent coverage during the past year. He noted much of the reporting was
on the thoughtful and constructive side and assisted in providing citizens with a
measure of knowledge and understanding of City problems.
Council Minutes 1/14/74 -9-
To the citizens who attend Council meetings regularly, Mayor Morton extended his
appreciation and thanked them for taking the time to attend the meetings and watch
government in action.
Mayor Morton commented on his hopes for the City of Downey in the future. He stated
each Councilman can take pride in the fact that the Council worked together to get some
things done. Mayor Morton indicated he hopes this coming year the Council will continue
to set the same type of constructive pace that has been set by each of the preceding
Councils, and this Council, the foundation it lays, will be the foundation upon which
future Councils will grow.
Mayor Morton announced his resignation and vacation of the position of Mayor of
the City of Downey.
Councilman Donald Winton made in the form of a nomination a motion to elect Mayor
Pro Tem. Richard M. Jennings as Mayor of the City of Downey for the term of next year.
City Clerk Robert Shand assumed the roll as Chairman of the City Council meeting
and declared the office of Mayor open. He inquired if there were any further nominations,
and there was no response.
It was moved by Councilman Walter Temple and seconded by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto
to close the nominations for Mayor.
Roll call vote:
AYES: 4 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Temple, Winton, Morton
ABSTAIN: I Councilmen:- Jennings
Councilman Morton presented the gavel of office to Mayor Jennings.
Mayor Richard Jennings asked Mrs. Morton to come forward. He said Councilman
Morton is leaving a legacy with this Council and future Councils of the City of Downey,
and he is sure this legacy will become history. He said Councilman Morton has had the
ability to pierce the camouflage of municipal government and get to the real problem
without hesitation; he has taught the Council decorum and correct procedure for which
this Council offers its thanks. Mayor Jennings presented a plaque to Councilman Morton,
commending him for serving this past year as Mayor, and to Mrs. Morton he presented a
bouquet of roses and thanked her for the efforts she has expended on behalf of her husband.
Mayor Jennings declared the office of Mayor Pro Tempore open.
Councilman Walter Temple nominated Councilman Joseph E. DiLoreto for the office of
Mayor Pro Tempore of the City of Downey. Councilman Donald Winton seconded the
nomination.
The City Clerk inquired if there were any further nominations, and there was no
response.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton and seconded by Councilman Walter Temple
to close the nominations.
Roll call vote:
AYES: 4 Councilmen: Temple, Winton, Morton, Jennings
ABSTAIN: 1 Councilmen: DiLoreto
Mr. Joseph Ferris, former Mayor and Councilman, 10331 Pangborn Street, Downey.
extended his regards to the City Council, City Manager, Department Heads, City Clerk,
City Attorney, and their Staffs. He congratulated Mayor Jennings and his wife, Mildred,
on his ascendency to the position of Mayor of the City of Downey, and he offered his
support. To Councilman Morton, Mc. Ferris said he knows he speaks for a great many
people in the City and outside the City in paying tribute and expressing appreciation
to a man and a family that has given many years of dedicated service to the community.
Mr. Wendell Wiser, 7816 Seventh Street, Downey, wished Mayor Jennings and
Councilman Morton the best of luck. He voiced opposition to the Councilmen serving
without pay and said he would Like to see something done about it.
Councilman Joseph DiLoreto noted that Councilman Morton has been a very erudite
and articulate statesman and spokesman for the City of Downey, and he has executed the
Council Minutes 1/14/74 -10-
duties of his office with the highest punctilio of honor. He said the repository of
trust that is enshrined in the Mayorship of the City of Downey is now intact and pre-
served and transferred to Mayor Jennings.
Councilman Walter.Temple thanked Councilman Morton for the opportunity to have
worked with him when he served as Mayor. He said he not only enjoyed it very much but
learned a lot from the experience, and he thanked Councilman Morton for that opportunity,
Councilman Temple wished Mayor Jennings the best of luck in the coming year and offered
his help.
Councilman Donald Winton said being a former Mayor he can appreciate the job
Councilman Morton has done as Mayor. He commented on his first year as a Councilman
when Councilman Morton was Mayor and expressed his appreciation and dedication to him.
Councilman Winton offered his help and experience as Mayor to Mayor Jennings and
congratulated him on his new assignment as Mayor of the City of Downey,
Mayor Richard Jennings introduced his wife, Mildred. He mentioned when elected to
the City Council he followed Scott Temple, who served three terms as Councilman and four
terms as Mayor, and now he is following Councilman Morton who has served three terms as
Councilman and three terms as Mayor. He said he is not getting any easy assignment.
Mayor Jennings stated it has been a privilege to serve on the City Council on behalf
of the citizens of the community, and he is looking forward to serving in an even
greater capacity as Mayor. He noted he has only three objectives to achieve during the
coming 12 months, and they are to continue the tradition of pay-as-you-go, home rule,
and teamwork. Mayor Jennings said he is also equally confident that the same teamwork
which binds Councilman to Councilman, City Council to management, and City government
to citizens will prevail this year and in the future years to come.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was
adjourned at 9:48 p.m.
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
Council Minutes 1/14/74 -11-