HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-02-11-74-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
FEBRUARY 11, 1974
TABLE OF MINUTE A C T ION S
SUBJECT:
Five Year Pin to Councilman Winton
D,I,P, #647, N/s DePalma bet, Paramount &
Gurley - Auth. Dept, Comm, Dev, to proceed
D,I,P, #648, S/s DePalma bet, Paramount &
Downey - Auth, Dept, Comm, Dev, to proceed
D.I.P. #649, E/s Paramount bet, DePalma &
Stewart & Gray - Auth, Dept, Comm. Dev,
to proceed
D,I,P, #636, Koopman & Pivot
Resolution #2900, Confirming Assessment for
Chapter 27 for D.I.P. #642, S/s Stewart & Gray
bet Orizaba & Downey Aves,
Minutes, January 14, 1974 & .January 22, 1974
Legal Claims (for i.n.formation. only)
Legal Claims (for Council action)
Ref', #IL 3, Rachel & Josephine Cabrera
Ref, 1W47, Alan Robert Thomas
Meeting Recessed to Executive Session
Resolutioni #2901, Apprvg, Renewal of Lease
bet, Soo Calif. Edison Co, & City Auth,
Mayor to sign Agmt, (Crawford Park.)
Resolution-#2902, Apprvg, Reappointment of
Ford A. Dickerhoff to County -Downey Reg,
Public Recreation Area Commission.
Resolution #2903, Apprvg, Final Subdiv, Map
of It #31403, Apprvg, Agmt, w/Subdividers &
Acceptance of Cash on Deposit in lieu. of
Surety Bonds (9191 Florence Ave,)
.Assess Park Fees, Tr #31403
Resolution #2904, Expressing Strongest
Opposition to AB 1181
General Warrants #29210 - 29364, #29365 -
29474, & #2947.5 - 29600
CC #338, Benares St, (DIP #645) - Award of
contract & transfer of funds
CC #SS-257, Unit II, & CC ,$SS-287, Stewart &
Gray Rd, .from Paramount to Salford - Award
of contract
Status Report of Public Works Projects as
of December 31, 1973
Traffic Barricading Report - Area bounded by
Paramount, Downey, Gardendale, Adoree
Page 1 of 2
ACTION:
Approved
Approved
Approved
PAGE N0,
Taken under submission;property
owners to be contacted
Adopted
Approved
No action
Denied
Adopted
Adopted
Adopted
Approved
Adopted
Approved
Approved
Approved
Ordered filed
Mayor to meet with citizens,
February 28th
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF FEBRUARY 11, 1974
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
SUBJECT,.
Driving Range Management Agreement -
Rio Hondo Golf Course - bet, City & Mr, Andrews
Acquisi,ton of Park Site 12334 Soo Bellflower
Blvd. - Autho City Manager to enter into
negotiations
Alcoholic Beverages - Downey Recreation Center
Suggestion of study re having Gardendale
and Roster Rd, named as one thoroughfare
Abandoned Service Stations
Abandoned vehicle at Gotham and Lakewood
Utility Users Tax
Page 2 of 2
ACTION: PAGE NO.
Terminated 9
Approved 10
Discussion 10
11
Request for preparation of
strong ordinance 11
Request vehicle be moved 11
Request for report re method
to stop increase in tax inclo
decline in Sales Tax Revenue 11
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL' '^
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY x '�
FEBRUARY 11, 1974
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m.,
February 11, 1974, in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Richard M.
Jennings presiding.
PRESENT: Councilmen: Walter S. Temple, Donald H. Winton, Thomas H. Morton,
Richard M. Jennings
ABSENT: Councilmen: Joseph E. DiLoreto (arrived at 7:30 p.m.)
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
Loren D. Morgan, Police Chief
J. D. Hughes, Captain, Fire Department
William Fritsche, Assistant Building Official
Harald J. Henriksen, City Engineer
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
Judy McDonnell, Executive Secretary
The Invocation was delivered by Councilman Walter Temple, followed by the Flag
Salute led by City Clerk Robert Shand.
Mayor Richard Jennings presented a Five Year Pin to Councilman Donald Winton for
his service to the City of Downey. Councilman Winton then presented the pin to his
wife, Ethel.
Mayor Richard Jennings declared that this is the time and place for the public
hearing on Downey Improvement Project No. 647, North side of DePalma Street between
Paramount Boulevard and Gurley Avenue. He inquired if the City Clerk had the Affidavit
of Post ng 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 receive and file the Affidavit.
Mayor Jennings inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or
objections, and the City Clerk replied he had not.
Community Development Director Ervin Spindel reported on the improvements for
construction of sidewalks at three locations. He said the estimated costs are as
follows: Site 1, 8219 DePalma Street - $143; Site 2, 8223 DePalma Street - $122; and
Site 3, 11757 Gurley Avenue (DePalma Frontage) - $126.
It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and
so ordered to receive the Engineer's Report.
Mayor Jennings inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in protest
to the improvements, and there was no response.
It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and
so ordered to close the hearing on Downey Improvement Project No. 647.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
passed by the following vote to grant authority to the Department of Community Develop-
ment to proceed with the construction on Downey Improvement Project No. 647, North side
of DePalma Street between Paramount Boulevard and Gurley Avenue.
AYES: 4 Councilmen: Temple, Winton, Morton, Jennings
ABSENT: 1 Councilmen: DiLoreto
Mayor Richard Jennings declared that this is the time and place for the public
hearing on Downey Improvement Project No. 648 South side of DePalma Street between
Paramount and Downey Avenue. He inquired if the City Clerk had the Affidavit of Posting
of Notice and Mailing, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
Council Minutes 2/11/74 -1-
17,
It was moved by Councilman Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and
so ordered to receive and file the Affidavit.
Mayor Jennings inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or
objections, and the City Clerk replied he had not.
Community Development Director Ervin Spindel reported on the improvements for
construction of sidewalks at two locations. He said the estimated costs are as follows:
8246 DePalma Street, $122, including matching funds; and 11832 Paramount Boulevard
(DePalma frontage), $1,957, not including matching funds.
Councilman Joseph DiLoreto arrived at the meeting at 7:38 p.m.
It•was;moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
so ordered to accept the Engineer's Report.
Mayor Jennings inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in protest
to the improvements, and there was no response.
It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and
so ordered to close the hearing on Downey Improvement Project No. 648.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Thomas Morton, and
passed by the following vote to grant authority to the Department of Community Develop-
ment to proceed with the construction on Downey Improvement Project No. 648, South side
of DePalma Street between Paramount and Downey Avenue.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings
Mayor Richard Jennings declared that this is the time and place for the public
hearing on Downey Improvement Project No. 649, East side of Paramount Boulevard between
DePalma Street and Stewart and Gray Road. He inquired if the City Clerk had the Affi-
davit of Posting of Notice and Mailing, to which the City Clerk responded in the
affirmative.
It was moved by Councilman Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Thomas Morton, and
so ordered to receive and file the Affidavit.
Mayor Jennings inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or
objections, and the City Clerk replied he had not.
Community Development Director Ervin Spindel reported on the improvements for
construction of sidewalks at 11837 Paramount Boulevard and said the estimated cost is
$1,059.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Thomas Morton, and
so ordered to receive and file the Engineer's Report.
Mayor Jennings inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in protest
to the improvements, and there was no response.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto,
and so ordered to close the hearing on Downey Improvement Project No. 649.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto,
and passed by the following vote to grant authority to the Department of Community
Development to proceed with the construction on Downey Improvement Project No. 649, East
side of Paramount Boulevard between DePalma Street and Stewart and Gray Road.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings
Mayor Richard Jennings declared that this is the time and place for the public
hearing on Downey Improvement Project No. 636, Koopman Avenue and Pivot Street. 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 Joseph DiLoreto,
and so ordered to receive and file the Affidavit.
Mayor Jennings inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or
objections, and the City Clerk replied he had not.
Council Minutes 2/11/74 -2-
Community Development Director Ervin Spindel reported on the completed improvements
and costs at the following locations:
Site 1 - 11434 Koopman Avenue - Total assessment and interest, $3,494.33.
Site 2 - 8107 Phlox Street - Total assessment and interest, $988.16.
Site 3 - 8113 Phlox Street - Total assessment and interest, $988,16.
Site 4 - 8117 Phlox Street - Total assessment and interest, $767.77.
Site 5 - 8121 Phlox Street - Total assessment and interest, $463,68.
Site 6 - 8017 Phlox Street - Total assessment and interest, $1,746.66.
Site 7_- 11426 Koopman Avenue - Total assessment and interest, $4,037.73
Mr. Spindel pointed out that the assessments for the property on the west side of
Koopman Avenue include paveout matching funds since this was done on a voluntary basis.
He said at the hearing on the work some of the property owners on Pivot Street requested
paveout matching funds, however, it was felt matching funds were not justified at that
time, and the assessments do not reflect them on Pivot Street.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
so ordered to receive the Engineer's Report.
Mayor Jennings inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in protest
to the improvements.
Mr. Henry Rechin, 8107 Phlox Street, stated when the City took over the street
there was an existing alley, it was paved before, and it is the City°s responsibility to
pave it, not the property owners. He said there was to be another meeting with the pro-
perty owners prior to the improvements, but the improvements were put in and the property
owners billed.
Mayor Jennings mentioned the necessary meetings were held, the property owners had
been duly notified for each meeting, and the property was properly posted before the
improvements were put in.
Mr. Rechin indicated he attended each meeting, and there was to have been another
meeting after that.
Mr. Spindel said the public hearing was held on August 13, 1973, and there were
quite a few people in attendance. He stated the file contains a copy of the notice sent
to Mr. Rechin, and also the notice was posted on Pivot Street frontage.
Mr. Rechin asked why the property owners should pay for paving a street that was
paved once before. He said he does not recall receiving a notice that the street was
to be paved,with the property owners paying for it.
Mrs. Gladys Wellman, 8113 Phlox Street, indicated the front of her property is not
on Pivot Street, but the back of her property is. She referred to an area in the
neighborhood of Smallwood Avenue, Third Street, and Rives Avenue, wherein the City was
putting in some improvements, and after causing damage to a couple of driveways, the City
put in new ones at no cost to the property owners. Mrs. Wellman indicated the property
owners on Phlox Street paid for their own driveways. When asked for the locations of
the properties, she said the second house on Smallwood and Third Street.
Mr. Spindel explained the City was putting in gutters which changed the grade so
much the driveways could not be used, and it was necessary to build new driveways. He
said in that case the property owners are not charged. Mr. Spindel commented the por-
tion of Pivot Street that is now under consideration was dedicated to the City in.
August, 1965, with all of the right-of-way coming from the property to the north; that
prior to that time Pivot Street was a private easement. He stated over the years there
was some rock and oil put in the street, however, the street was never improved to City
and County standards. He said he believes rock and oil was put on the street by the
property owners.
Councilman Joseph DiLoreto indicated at the meeting of August 13, 1973, it was his
understanding that Mr. Spindel was going to meet personally with the property own.ers
after reviewing the claims made.
Councilman Temple concurred.
Mrs. Wellman mentioned Mr. Chrysler owned the property in back on the north side
of the street, which he paved. She explained that Mr. Chrysler had approached the
other property owners and said he would pave the street if they would give so much land;
Council Minutes 2/11/74 -3-
that she.moved.:her fence back nine -to -ten feet, but when no one else did, she latermoved
it back out again. However, she said, the street was paved.
Councilman DiLoreto asked if it is the City's responsibility to sweep and maintain
a street after it becomes a dedicated street, which this one is. Mr. Spindel replied
the City does not sweep unpaved streets.
Councilman Temple inquired if the property owners will receive any benefit from the
paving of Pivot Street. Mr. Spindel stated they will be able to use Pivot Street, inas-
much as they have access rights to the street, and it is possible they could benefit
should they decide to split their lots or have double access.
Mr. Spindel read from the Council Minutes of August 13, 1973, regarding this
matter and said the project was then advertised for bids. He stated the contract was
awarded at the Council meeting of October 8th, at which time he submitted a report on
the dedication and of the rock and oil placed on Pivot Street. He said the instruction
was if it was unclear, the property owners were to be contacted, and at the time of sub-
mitting his report there were no further instructions.
Mrs. Wellman indicated the only notice she received was last week regarding the
assessment. She said the property owners do not use and never have used Pivot Street.
Mrs. Wellman stated the property owners expected to have another meeting on this,
Councilman Thomas Morton asked if any of the property owners actually have access
onto Pivot Street.
Mr. Spindel replied they have wooden fences, and one or two have gates. He pointed
out that the file contains a receipt for certified mail which was sent to Mrs. Wellman
August 10, 1973, telling her there would be a public hearing on August 13th, and if she
had any questions to call the project engineer. He said the same letter was sent to all
of the people in the district by certified mail.
Councilman DiLoreto asked if there was another meeting after the public hearing,
and Mr. Spindel said.noe.,
Councilman Morton questioned the possibility of the property owners not having
access, or if they close up any present access, and there £s'nosimmediate benefit of
the construction, will the costs applying against each of these properties apply only
in the event they divide their lots or take future access onto Pivot Street.
City Attorney Royal Sorensen replied he does not know of any way of deferring and
imposing the costs at a later date.
Mr. Dick Raabe, owner of property at 8117 Phlox Street, indicated the property
owners would not hesitate to pay for paving or resurfacing Pivot Street if it would
benefit their property, however, the City has paved a section of land in back of their
property to which they have no access or use, and the improvements do not increase the
value of their property. He said they do not use the street, they do not drive on. it,
and there is no way they will ever have merchandise delivered to their property over
this street. Mr. Raabe pointed out that Pivot Street is expressly for the businesses
located there and not for the properties in question. He noted the only benefit he will
receive from the paving is that it will not raise any dust from the cars and trucks.
Mr. Raabe referred to the fact that Mrs. Wellman is living on a Limited income,
and this assessment will be a hardship for her. He indicated the rest of the property
owners are businesses that are not large enough to easily write-off $500 for the
assessment.
Mayor Jennings asked Mr. Raabe if he would be willing to give up permanent access
rights to Pivot Street in lieu of paying for the assessment. Mr. Raabe said yes.
Discussion followed.
Mr. Lloyd Hall, owner of property at Koopman and Pivot, spoke in favor of the
improvement but asked that the general contractor be contacted to clean up a wall on
his property that was soiled. This matter was turned over to the Director of Community
Development.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
so ordered to close the hearing on Downey Improvement Project No. 636.
Council Minutes 2/11/74 -4-
Councilman Morton proposed to take Downey Improvement Project No. 636, Koopman
Avenue and Pivot Street, under submission to the Council meeting of March llth and
determining from each of the property owners whether or not they will be agreeable to
not having any access at all onto Pivot Street, making that permanently non -accessible.
If so, he said, then the Council should consider the redistribution of costs or of the
City absorbing some of the costs, Councilman Morton stated it is hard for him to see
why they should bear a cost where there is no benefit to them as property owners. He
indicated if the property owners want to split their property and put a building on the
rear and have access onto Pivot Street, then they should bear their proportionate share
of the costs; that when they have some benefit or have access to Pivot Street, the
Council should then take another look at it,
Councilman Temple concurred.
Councilman DiLoreto indicated he has personally viewed Pivot Street, and it looked
like it was paved at one time by the County or the City and not maintained. He said
the City accepted the property, which is a dedicated street, it assumed a certain amount
of liability, and if someone were injured and it was proven the City was negligent, the
City would be liable, not the property owners, Councilman DiLoreto commented he considers
this as part of the maintenance, and the property owners should not have to pay anything,
Councilman Winton asked about the legality relative to the dedication of property by
the property owners to the north, which is a commercial enterprise, and whether or not
there is a Liability for those to the south,
Mr. Sorensen said if the City accepted the street in an unimproved condition, then
the question of improvement comes under the provisions of either the major improvement
act of 1911 or short form proceedings of Chapter 27, as it has done in this case. He
stated under Chapter 27 proceedings, it is those properties fronting upon the street
that pay for it, and the obligation goes to the mid point.
Mr. Spindel explained this dedication was required by a zoning case by the Planning
Commission; also, the properties on the north dedicated the entire 40 feet and were re-
quested to improve the north half, including putting in total gutter up to the limit of
their property, He said this is why some of the assessments are less than others on
Pivot Street because gutters were already in,
Councilman Temple asked if the south side of the street had anything to say about
it at all. Mr. Spindel replied nog but they still get the benefit of using the street,
having access from it,
Councilman Morton said the costs could apply if a property owner decided to divide
his lot and have access onto Pivot Street, but until they do, there is no benefit to
them at all,
Mr. Sorensen mentioned since the Council has indicated a motion to take this matter
under submission, if the property owners whose property lies between Phlox and Pivot
conveyed to the City their access rights onto Pivot, then the City would be able to
prohibit access from those lots onto Pivot Street, and in consideration for eventually
conveying back the access rights the City could attach the reimbursement factor; but,
it would require the conveyance of the access rights by the present property owners.
Councilman Morton commented he was on this street two Saturdays ago, and there were
three trucks parked there. He said it is being used more as a parking area, than through-
way, and it is a difficult street for the general public to use,
The motion to take this matter under submission was seconded by Councilman Donald
Winton and passed by the following vote.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings
Mayor Richard Jennings declared that this is the time and place for the public
hearing on Downey Improvement Project No, 642, Sites 1 and 3. South side Stewart and
Gray Road between Orizaba and Downey, 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 Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and
so ordered to receive and file the Affidavit,
Mayor Jennings inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or
objections, and the City Clerk replied he had not,
Council Minutes 2/11/74 -5-
r `Gi ei A -
Community Development Director Ervin. Spndel reported on the improvements for
construction of sidewalks at the following locations:
Site 1 - 8214 Stewart and Gray Road - Total assessment and interest, ,209.80.
Site 3 _ 11903 Downey Avenue (Stewart and Gray frontage) - Total assessment and.
interest, $29:20540
He pointed out that Site 1 is receiving matching funds —Site 3 is not.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Thomas Morton, and
so ordered to receive the Engineer°s Report,
Mayor Jennings inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in protest
to the improvements, and there was no response.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto,
and so ordered to close the hearing on. Downey Improvement Project No. 642.
RESOLUTION NO. 2900
A RESOLUTION OF 'THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY'
CONFIRMING THE ASSESSMENT FOR CHAPTER 27 PROCEEDINGS
FOR DOWNEY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 642, SOUTH SIDE OF
STEWART AND GRAY ROAD, BETWEEN OR1'2ABA AND DOWNEY AVENUES
The Resolution. was read by ti.tle only. It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton,
seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and so ordered to waive .further reading.
I:t. was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
passed by the following vote to adopt. Resoiuti.00 No. 29000
AYES: 5 Councilman. Temple, DiLoreto, Wia ton, Morton, Jennings
It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton., seconded by Councilman. Walter Temple, and
passed by the following vote to approve the Minutes of the City Council Meeting of
January 14, 19740
AYES: 5 Councilm.e"n.o Temple, Di.Loreto, Winton, M'or"to:u, Jennings
It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded, by Councilman Walter Temple, and
passed by the following vote to approve the Minutes of the City Council Meeting of
January 22, 1974,
AYES: 4 Councilman- Temple, DiLoreto, Morton., Jennings
ABSTAIN. 1 Councilman. Winton
Communication from Mrs. E, Fo Holmes regarding Appreciation. to Downey Fire Department.
Ordered filed,
Communication from City of Pico Rivera regasdirg Resolution. in Opposition to Pro_,
posa,l re Transportation Policies, Ordered filed,
Communication from City of Pico Rivera regarding Resolution: Urging Equal Consumer
Representation on. the Public Utilities Commission, Ordered filed.
Communication from City of Pico Rivera regarding Resolution OP2osi,ng Addition of
'Two Representatives representing Special Districts to LAFCO, Ordered filed.
Communtcati,on from Public Utilities Commission. regarding Energy and Fuel
Requirements. Ordered filed,
Communication from Western. Union Telegraph Company regarding Notice of Proposed
Tariff Changes. Ordered filed.
Mayor Richard Jennings inquired if Western Union has an office in town and if it
comes under the Utility Tax. Finance Direct.or R�.cbard Patton replied that Western
Union does have a small office in town and is not subject to the Utility Tax.
Communication from City of Hawthorne regarding Resolution in 0
Bill 36.57 and House of Representatives Bill No, 152:30 re Clergy Tax
filed
Council Minutes 2/11/74 -6-
Communication from Environmental Coalition of Orange County Urging City of Downey
to Reconsider Position on San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant, Ordered filed,
Communication from California Coastal Zone Conservation Commission regarding
Appreciation for City of Downey°s Resolution re ,Expansion of San Onofre Nuclear Generating
Plant, Ordered filed,
Communication from Dorothy Trimmell regarding Appreciation to Downey Fire Department,
Ordered filed.
Communication from Public Utilities Commission regarding Application of
Telephone Co, for authority to increase rates re Telephone Answering Service,
F4 1 -A
LEGAL CLAIMS (for information only)
Ref, #144, James d Marilyn Coleman
Ref, #145, State Farm Insurance (d Harold Gjersoe)
Ref, #146, Thomas G. Nieves
LEGAL CLAIMS (for Council action)
Ref, #143, Rachel and Josephine Cabrera.
Ref, #147, Alan Robert Thomas
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Thomas Morton, and
passed by the following vote to deny the dal claims of Rachel and Josephine Cabrera,
Ref, #143 and Alan Robert Thomas, Ref. #147, as recommended by the carrier.
AYES. 5 Councilmen. Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings
Mayor Richard Jennings recessed the meeting to Executive: Session at 8:30 p.m. The
meeting resumed at 8t58 p.m, with, all Councilmen present.,
RESOLUTION NO, 2901
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING RENEWAL OF LEASE BETWEEN SOUTHERN CALIF'ORNIA
EDISON COMPANY AND THE CITY OF DOWNEY AUTHORIZING THE
MAYOR TO SIGN AGREEMENT (CRAWFOR'D PARK.)
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton.,
seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman. Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman 'Donald Winton, and
passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2901,
AYES. S Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, W3:nton, Morton, Jennings
RESOLUTION NO, 2902
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY' OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE REAPPOINTMENT OF FORD A. DICKERHOFF AS A
MEMBER OF THE LOS ANC4ELES COUNTY-DOWNEYREGIONAL PUBL:C
RECREATION AREA COMMISSION
The Resolution was read by title only, Ir was moved by Councilman Donald Winton,
seconded. by Councilman ,Jo.sepb. DiLoreto, and so ordered to waive further reading,
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto,
and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No, 29020
AYES: 5 Councilmen. Temple, Di.Loreco, Winton, Morton, Jennings
RESOLUTION NO, 2903
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE FINAL SUBDIVISION MAP OF TRACT NO, 31403
APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH THE SUBDIVIDERS AND ACCEPTANCE
OF CASH ON DEPOSIT IN LIEU OF SURETY BONDS (9191 FLORENCE
AVENUE)
Council Minutes 2/11/74
R
The Resolution was read by title only.
City Planner William Coggin indicated the Council should assess park fees for the
development to the extent of $4200. He said the money is on hand and based on $175. per
unit.
It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
passed by the following vote to assess park fees, as recommended.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings
-- Councilman Joseph DiLoreto reported that when he and Councilman Walter Temple were
elected to the City Council, their first assignment had to do with the Apartment House
Survey Committee. He said this property was the subject of an extensive report and re-
view of the single family residence, and the man who eventually bought the development
appeared before the Council, presented petitions, and stated in his opinion the property
could be developed R-1. Councilman DiLoreto commented the gentleman was instrumental
not only in preventing the development of a particular apartment by a man who probably
has one of the finest in the City, but also acquired the property and subsequently turned
around and developed it into a. condominium. He said the gentleman had indicated the pro-
perty could be developed R-1 and after his subsequent purchase developed the property on
the basis of a condominium apparently to the satisfaction of all.
It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and
so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and
passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2903.
AYES: 5 Councilmen. Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings
RESOLUTION NO. 2904
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
EXPRESSING STRONGEST OPPOSITION TO AB 1181
The Resolution was read by title only.
City Manager Charles Thompson reported Assembly Bill 1181 has passed the House and
been. referred to the Senate. He said the Bill, did, however, have some amendments, one of
which was the deletion of the provision allowing a tax by the regional agency. He indi-
cated, however, it still does contain a provision for mandatory involvement of membership
in the regional agency.
It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and
so ordered to waive further reading,
It was moved by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple,
and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2904.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton., Jennings
Councilman Donald Winton indicated if this is the type of representation it appears
Mr. Gonzalves will give the City, he, for one, will be very strongly opposed to Mr.
Gonzalves in his race for Assemblyman..
It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and
passed by the following vote to approve General Warrants #29210 - #29364. $97 438 55,
#29365 - #29474, $276,356,95, and #29475 - #29600, $65,692.73.
AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings
Following a summation of bids, it was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by
Councilman Joseph DiLoreto, and passed by the following vote to award Cash Contract #338,
Benares Street (D.I.P. #645), in the amount of the unit prices bid to Sully -Miller Con-
tracting Company of Long Beach to complete the street improvements on Benares Street
between Mitla Avenue and Old River School Road., and the following transfer of funds:
Amount
From
To
$1,000 Gas Tax Fund Balance (Fund 27) A/C #27-11342
Council Minutes 2/11/74 -8-
Mayor Richard Jennings suggested the Council not transfer the funds as recommended
of $1,000 because 95 percent of the Downey Improvement contracts that come before the
Council in their final phase require additional money, He asked why this cant be left
until the final phase,
Community Development Director Ervin Spindel explained there may be some extra work
involved. He said this $1,000 would hopefully give enough appropriation to take care of
any .small extra work.
Mayor Jennings pointed out the low bid is $800 above the Engineer's estimate.
Councilman Thomas Morton indicated to Mr. Spindel he would like to see a date
inserted upon his memos for recommendations submitted to the Mayor and City Council,
Councilman Walter Temple mentioned he will abstain from voting on. this matter,
inasmuch as Sully -Miller is a subsidiary of Union Oil Company,
Roll call vote.,
AYES: 4 Councilmen.., DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings
ABSTAIN: 1 Councilmen: Temple
Following a summation. of bids, it was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by
Councilman Thomas Morton, and passed by the following vote to award Cash Contract #SS-257
Unit 'II, and Cash Contract #SS-287, Stewart and Gray Road from Paramount Boulevard to
Salford Avenue, to Sully -Miller Contracting Company of Long Beach in the amount of the
unit prices bid for the street improvements.
Responding to questions, Community Development Director Ervin Spindel stated a
sewer is being constructed on the south side of Stewart and Gray Road west of Old River
School Road, and the laterals are also in place, He said anybody wishing to hook up to
the sewer will have to pay charges for a portion of the cost of the sewer, and this is
being done now so that the street won't have to be dug up later, Mr. Spindel further
indicated the laterals are encased because they are crossing a water line,
Councilman Walter Temple stated he will abstain from voting on this matter, inasmuch
as Sully -Miller is a subsidiary of Union Oil Company,
AYES: 4 Councilmen: DiLoreto, Winton, Morton., Jennings
ABSTAIN: 1 Councilmen: Temple
The Status Report of Public Works Projects as of December 31, 1973 was ordered filed,
Traffic Barricading Report - Area, bounded by Paramount Boulevard, Downey Avenue,
Gardetndale Street. and Adoree Street
Mayor Richard Jennings mentioned he talked with the Director of Community Develop-
ment and they agreed Thursday, February 28th, would be an appropriate time to have a
meeting, and the Director will select a meeting place and inform all of the people in.
that area by letter as to the time and place of the meeting,
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded. by Councilman Walter Temple, and
passed by the following vote to terminate the existing Driving Range Management Agreement
Rio Hondo Golf Course between. the City of Downey and Mr, Lani.n.g Andrews .for the operation
of the Rio Hondo Golf Course Driving Range,
Mayor Richard Jennings referred to the $600 a month reduced cost as proposed in the
recommendation and asked if this amount of money was set up with the professional to
partly defray the light 'bill,
Parks & Recreation Director James Ruth replied the City was paying the utilities,
and this is an accurate figure,
Councilman Temple mentioned in 1972 a study was done on the Golf Course Driving
Range operation. and analysis and the best method of operating the driving range, as
recommended by Staff., was to have a professional operate it. He recommended a recon-
sideration by the Council in tbree-to-four months regarding the Driving Range
operation to determine whether to have one professional operate both the Pro Shop and
Driving Range rather than the City operating one. He requested a status report back on.
the Ci.ty's operation of the Driving Range and what can be worked out with a pro,
Council Minutes 2/11/74 -9-
Discussion followed.
Councilman Joseph DiLoreto called for an up-to-date and realistic analysis of the
reason why the driving range is not being fully used, and he asked Mr. Ruth to give this
matter some concerted effort. He said this should be number one priority, inasmuch as
the City has invested a lot of money and should be breaking even.
Mayor Jennings pointed out that the driving range has not been properly publicized
or maintained.
Roll call vote:
AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager Charles Thompson reported on Acquisition of Park Site at 12334 South
Bellflower Boulevard. He said after a review and study it has been determined there are
not too many potential sites available, but this site is available and would serve the
needs as a general park site. He emphasized this would not be a neighborhood facility
but would be a larger park for the area and lies immediately south of the heliport site,
also adjoining the City garage facilities. Mr. Thompson said this would allow not only
the development of a general park but would also provide a safety measure for the possi-
ble future expansion of the Public Works garage, if it ever became necessary, In
addition, he stated, the Council has already authorized the development of tennis court
facilities at the old heliport site, and if this site were to be purchased, it would
allow the moving of that facility to this property. Mr. Thompson commented on the size
of the property and indicated there is an existing building used in connection with a
driving range. He mentioned there are some existing lights that could be utilized. Mr.
Thompson requested Council authorization to negotiate the purchase of property and bring
back to the Council details of the negotiation, if successful, for final Council
approval. He added that Capital Improvement and Revenue Sharing Funds would be utilized
in the acquisition of the facilities, the details of which would have to be negotiated.
It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto,
and passed by the following vote to authorize the City Manager to enter into negotiation.
for the Purchase of a Park Site at 12334 South Bellflower Boulevard.
Councilman. DiLoreto said he thinks the City should consider divesting itself of the
interest in the surplus fire station located on Downey Avenue' and also the heliport.
Mayor Richard Jennings remarked Councilman Morton had requested a year, ago that a
thorough study be made to determine whether the City wanted to use the site for City
purposes before the City divested itself of the fire station site.
Councilman Thomas Morton concurred and said he thought the matter should be
surveyed to see what use could be made of, the fire station site, such as for the
Historical Society, the Downey Centennial, or senior citizens meeting hall.
Mayor Jennings requested the City Manager to make such a survey and return it to
the City Council.
Roll call vote:
AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton., Jennings
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Joe Deckerg 9046 Raebert Street, inquired regarding the disposition of the
Ordinance permitting or not permitting alcoholic beverages at the Downey Recreation
Center.
City Manager Charles Thompson replied that a report had just been submitted today
to the Council from the Park & Recreation Commission. He said he felt sure the report
would be ready for appearance on the Council Agenda for the February 26th meeting.
Mr. Decker asked about the Commissionss recommendations. He was informed by Mr,
Thompson that the Commission basically ruled against the sale or use of aocoholic
beverages in the Theatre and Recreation. Center.
Portions of the Report were read in answer to Mr. Decker's questions.
Council Minutes 2/11/74 -10-
Councilman Walter Temple indicated the Park & Recreation Commission is concerned
over the sale of alcohol by groups coming in for parties.
Councilman Donald Winton suggested the initiation of a study relative to having
Gardendale Street and Foster Road named as one complete thoroughfare --either as
Gardendale Street or as Foster Road.
Community Development Director Ervin Spindel pointed out that Gardendale Street
travels at an angle and then Foster Road takes off just east of Lakewood and Gardendale.
He said there is a Gardendale Street in Bellflower south of Foster Road.
Councilman Winton requested preparation of a strong ordinance relative to
Abandoned Service Stations, especially if there is a condition where gasoline is being
stored in the tanks of the abandoned station and being held in violation of retail
sales. He called for an ordinance relative to dismantling the stations and fixing them
as a storage warehouse type of operation rather than retail sales.
Captain J. D. Hughes of the Fire Department explained this matter is being worked
on at the present time with respect to the Fire Code.
Councilman Winton inquired about enforcing the use of blacktop on property after
the storage tanks have been removed. He commented on the property at the following
locations: Lakewood at Gardendale/Foster Road, and Downey Avenue at Gardendale.
Councilman Joseph DiLoreto spoke of still another problem pertaining to the north-
east corner of Lakewood and Imperial, wherein for months people have been using the
property for displaying used vehicles for sale, He said the cars have been sitting there
for months and they are never washed or cleaned.
Assistant Building Official William Fritsche indicated the property owner at that
location has submitted a plan for building on that corner and is now taking bids for
the construction of a business.
Councilman DiLoreto said the problem also exists in other areas of the City.
Discussion followed.
Councilman Thomas Morton reported on an abandoned vehicle at the corner of Gotham
Avenue and Lakewood Boulevard. He asked that the vehicle be moved.
Mayor Richard Jennings spoke regarding the Utility Users Tax adopted by Ordinance
No. 384 in August, 1970, and of his support for the tax since it was adopted. He said
it was and still is a necessary ordinance, and he mentioned the revenue it brings to the
City in lieu of raising property taxes. Mayor Jennings referred to the increasing rates
of utility companies and of the revenue derived from the tax. He commented on the in-
creased revenue as a result of the rate increases for utilities and of the revenue
received to date during each, fiscal year. Mayor Jennings said he thinks it is time to
put some kind of a stop on the increase in the Utility Tax, and he offered the following
methods: To decrease the amount of the tax from five to four percent; or, his preference,
to peg the Utility Users Tax at the July 1, 1973 rate. He requested the City Manager
and the Director of Finance to look into this matter and bring back a report at the next
Council meeting as to which system would be more equitable and easily upgraded.
Councilman Thomas Morton asked that the report on the Utility Users Tax include a
report on the amount of the Sales Tax Revenue, along with the Sales Tax Revenue pro-
jected on a graph showing the decline of revenue for the lack of sale of large vehicles
so that the Council can see how much the City may be losing in other areas.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was
adjourned at 9:42 p.m.
i rZ-c
Robert L. Shand, Cit Clerk -Tr asurer Richard f. J ings, M ,7or
Council Minutes 2/11/74 -11-