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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-02-26-74-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY FEBRUARY 26, 1974 T A B L E O F M I N U T E A C T I O N S SUBJECT: Minutes, February 11, 1974 Increase in Rate for SE Taxi Co. Legal Claims (information only) Ref. #148, V. M. Lee Ref. #149, Hertz Corp. Ref. #150, Allstate Ins. Ref. #151, D. A. Dresman Legal Claims (for Council action) Ref. #145, State Farm & H. Gjersoe Ordinance re Removal of Vehicles due to Illegal Parking Ordinance Amending Sec. 7508 DMC re Payment of Underground Utility Assessments Ordinance Amending Sec. 2505.1 DMC re Special Deposit Fund Ordinance Repealing Secs. DMC & Adding Secs. Adopting Uniform Fire Code, 1973 Edition Ordinance Amending DMC re Installation & Maint. of Publication Vending Machines Resolution #2905, Designating Fourth Street Thru St. at Intersectn w/Smallwood Ave. Resolution #2906, Listing Officers & Polling Places for General Municipal Election to be held Tuesday, 9th of April, 1974 ACTION: Approved Approved No action Denied Held in abeyance for next meeting Introduced Introduced Introduced; Hearing set 3/26/74 Introduced Adopted Adopted Resolution #2907, Endorsing Method of Est. Priority List of Expenditures, etc. from State Beach,Park, Historical & Rec. Fac. Bond Act '74 Adopted General Warrants #29601 - 29778, #29779 - 29885 CC #340, Second St., Wileyburke to Rives - Plans, specs & auth. to advertise CC #348, C1eta St. Relief Sewer from Lakewood to Approx. 650° W1y - Plans, specs d auth. to advertise CC #SS-299: Wiley Burke Ave., Florence to Lubec; Guatemala Ave., Dinsdale to Lubec - P1ans, specs, auth. to advertise; transfer of funds CC #347, Koopman Ave, Pivot St. Imprvmts. - Acceptance of improvements CC #SS-293, Traffic Signal - Paramount at Brookmill - Acceptance of improvements Use of Alcoholic Beverages in Green Room, Downey Theatre or Recreation Bldg. Page 1 of 2 Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Decision of Park Comm. upheld PAGE NO. 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 m 4 5 5 5 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL FEBRUARY 26, 1974 TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS SUBJECT: ACTION: PAGE NO. Increase in Green Fees at Rio Hondo Golf Course Approved 5 Painting of Interior of Library - Appropriation Approved 6 Petition re Handling & Pre -casting roles for Downey Comm. Theatre Productions No action 6 Report on Progress of Bicycle Path Study No action 6 Report on status of Lakes at Wilderness Park No action 7 Resolution re Tenure of Council Office To be presented 7 No Parking Anytime South Side Florence Ave. between Brookshire and Lakewood Request for study report 7 Page 2 of 2 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY FEBRUARY 26, 1974 The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 8:00 a.m., February 26, 1974, in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Richard M. Jennings presiding. PRESENT: Councilmen: Walter S. Temple, Joseph E. DiLoreto, Donald H. Winton, Thomas H. Morton, Richard M. Jennings ABSENT: Councilmen: 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 & Recreation William A, Goggin, City Planner Ray Lake, Building Official Loren D. Morgan, Police Chief Edwin H. Wood, Fire Chief Lyle H. Wilkenson, Battalian Chief, Fire Department Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer Judy McDonnell, Executive Secretary The Invocation was delivered by Reverend Norris Barnes, United Methodist Church, followed by the Flag Salute led by Councilman Donald Winton. Police Chief Loren Morgan gave formal recognition to the following Police Officers for their accomplishments: Officer Pete Parsons - Advance Certificate S B. S. Degree in Criminology Officer Jerry Davidson - B. S. Degree in Criminology 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 February 11, 1974. Communication from Southeast Taxi Co., Inc., regarding New Rate for Taxicab Service. City Manager Charles Thompson reported the requested increase is due to increases in gasoline. He said in substance the request is a change from 1/7 mile after the flag drops to 1/8 mile with a .lOC increase, which amounts to 7.69 percent increase for a one -mile trip; a ten percent increase for a two-mile trip; 11.1 percent increase for a three-mile trip; and 11.7 percent for a four -mile trip. Mr. Thompson stated Southeast Taxi's report of income and expenses has been examined and compared to previous years, and there appears to be ample reason for the request which he is, therefore, recommending. It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and passed by the following vote to approve the request of Southeast Taxi Co. for Increase in Taxi Fares. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings Communication from John F. Dawson expressing Appreciation to the Downey Fire Department. Ordered filed. Communication from Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors regarding Ordinance re Selling Motor Vehicle Fuel. Ordered filed. Mayor Richard Jennings mentioned Supervisor Hahn had set up a meeting for all Mayors in the County in an attempt to get all cities to join the County in a fuel marketing pro- gram, however, this has been changed since Governor Reagan announced setting a State fuel marketing program by this weekend. LEGAL CLAIMS (for information only) Ref. #148, Violet M. Lee Ref. #149, Hertz Corp. Ref. #150, Allstate Insurance Co. Ref. #151, David Allen Dresman Council Minutes 2/26/74 -1- LEGAL CLAIMS (for Council action) Ref. #145, State Farm Insurance Co. and Harold Gjersoe It was moved by Councilman Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and so ordered to deny legal claim of State Farm Insurance Co. and Harold Gjersoe, Reference No. 145. The Ordinance pertaining to Removal of Vehicles due to Illegal Parking was held in abeyance for the next meeting. ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING SECTION 7508 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE WHICH SAID SECTION RELATES TO THE PAYMENT OF UNDERGROUND UTILITY ASSESSMENTS The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Thomas Morton, seconded by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto, 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 introduce the Ordinance. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING SECTION 2505.1 OF CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE II, OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE SPECIAL DEPOSIT FUND The Ordinance 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 introduce the Ordinance. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY REPEALING SECTIONS 3300 THROUGH 3394.4 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADDING SECTIONS 3300 THROUGH 3331 ADOPTING THE UNIFORM FIRE CODE, 1973 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF BUILDING OFFICIALS AND WESTERN FIRE CHIEFS ASSOCIATION AND PROVIDING FOR ADDITIONS, DELETIONS AND AMENDMENTS TO SAID CODE The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and so ordered to waive further reading. Councilman Joseph DiLoreto said on Page 2 of the Ordinance, reference is made to collection of fees and penalties, however, there is no mention of any penalty or fee schedule. City Attorney Royal Sorensen indicated fees change from time to time and, therefore, a provision was included that fees could be established by resolution of the Council. He said the penalties would be the usual penalty provision of the Municipal Code viola- tions of a misdemeanor. Councilman DiLoreto asked if voice communication systems for high rise buildings under Section 13.404 applies to pre-existing buildings. The City Manager replied no. Councilman DiLoreto indicated this should be specified in the Ordinance. Mr. Sorensen pointed out that the Ordinance is not retroactive. Council Minutes 2/26/74 -2- Referring to Section 3324 (c), Page 19, Councilman DiLoreto asked if the "no smoking" provisions would apply to the foyer of the Theatre. Fire Chief Edwin Wood commented smoking is permitted in the foyers, but in places where public assemblage takes place, smoking is not permitted. It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton and seconded by Councilman Thomas Morton to introduce the Ordinance. Discussion followed. Mayor Richard Jennings asked if this is the fire code as written or if there are any changes peculiar to Downey. Chief Wood replied there is one change regarding high rise buildings: The height established by the National Building Code is 75 feet, but Downey has revised it to 55 feet to be consistent with other cities in the area and to afford additional protection. Mr. Sorensen noted that each section contained in this Ordinance is in some varia- tion with the uniform code as published in book form. Chief Wood pointed out that the published code is written as a model code that could be adopted throughout the United States, and it does not always meet local restrictions or local applications. Councilman DiLoreto referred to Section 3325, Page 19, of the Ordinance and asked what type of alarm system would be used. Chief Wood explained this provides for manual application of an alarm system in a building. Roll call vote: AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and so ordered to set a hearing on the Proposed Ordinance Adopting the Uniform Fire Code for 8:00 a.m., March 26, 1974, in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall. ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING PART 11 TO CHAPTER 5 OF ARTICLE VI, CONSISTING OF SECTIONS 6598 THROUGH 6599.10 RELATING TO THE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF PUBLICATION VENDING MACHINES City Attorney Royal Sorensen reported a sentence was added to Section 6599.2 of the Ordinance pertaining to applications being submitted by the Tax Collector to the Director of Public Works for review. He said Section "j" was also added on Page 8 which allows the Director of Public Works to deviate from the standards prescribed by the Ordinance when he finds it would create a violation of the section that says "no machine shall be placed in such manner that it would impede pedestrian traffic" and if he finds it would otherwise endanger public peace, health, safety, or welfare or be contrary to purposes and intent of this part. Mr. Sorensen explained the procedure involved if such a finding and determination is made; that if the owner or custodian of the vending machine disagrees, he has the right of appeal under provisions of the Ordinance. City Manager Charles Thompson requested where "Director of Public Works" appears throughout the Ordinance that it be changed to "Director of Community Development". It was so noted. Councilman Joseph DiLoreto indicated it is his understanding the Los Angeles Times filed a lawsuit against a couple of cities adopting an ordinance similar to the proposed Ordinance, and it was declared to be unconstitutional. He asked the City Attorney to find out exactly what the Court held unconstitutional. The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and so ordered to waive further reading. Council Minutes 2/26/74 -3- It was moved by Councilman Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and passed by the following vote to introduce the Ordinance. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings RESOLUTION NO. 2905 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DESIGNATING FOURTH STREET A THROUGH STREET AT ITS INTERSECTION WITH SMALLWOOD AVENUE The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2905. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings RESOLUTION NO. 2906 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY LISTING OFFICERS AND POLLING PLACES FOR THE 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 Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto, and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 2906. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings RESOLUTION NO. 2907 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY ENDORSING THE METHOD OF ESTABLISHING A PRIORITY LIST OF EXPENDITURES AND THE DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS FROM THE STATE BEACH, PARK, HISTORICAL AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES BOND ACT OF 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. 2907. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and passed by the following vote to approve General Warrants #29601 - #29778, $327 631.73, and #29779 - #29885, $146,846.96. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and so ordered to approve plans and specifications and grant authority to advertise for bids on Cash Contract #340, Second Street -.Wiley Burke Avenue to Rives Avenue. It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and so ordered to approve plans and specifications and grant authority to advertise for bids on Cash Contract #348, C1eta Street Relief Sewer from Lakewood Boulevard to approximatel f,Snr Tso�ro,-'I ., It was moved by Councilman Walter Temple, seconded by Councilman Donald Winton, and passed by the following vote to approve plans and specifications; grant authority to advertise for bids; and authorize the,- following transfer of funds on Cash Contract #SS-299: Wiley Burke Avenue Florence to Lubec; Guatemala Avenue - Dinsdale to Lubec. Council Minutes 2/26/74 -4- Amount From To $10,000. A/C #2616130 A/C #2616156 AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and passed by the following vote to accept the improvements completed under Cash Contract #347, Koopman Avenue - Pivot Street Improvements. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and passed by the following vote to accept the improvements constructed under Cash Contract #SS-293, Traffic Signal - Paramount Boulevard at Brookmill Road. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings CITY MANAGER'S REPORT City Manager Charles Thompson reported the Park & Recreation Commission has made a review of the request to the Council regarding Use of Alcoholic Beverages in the Green Room of the Downey Theatre or Recreation Building, and the Commission recommended against any use or sale of alcoholic beverages. He said, however, if if is the Council's wish to approve the use of alcoholic beverages, the Commission has recommended use be restricted to wine or champagne on a non -sale basis and under rules and regulations promulgated by the Park & Recreation Department and City Staff and reviewed by the Chief of Police and State Liquor Control Officer. Parks & Recreation Director James Ruth mentioned when the use of alcohol was studied, it was felt there would be very little income generated as a result of this and he commented on requests for use of the Green Room for wedding receptions. He said with the active programs at the Theatre for non-profit community usage, it was felt this would not be conducive to using alcohol. The Council indicated it would uphold the decision of the Park & Recreation Commission. Mr. Thompson stated a comparison has been made of the Green Fees at the Downey Rio Hondo Golf Course, and it is found the weekend charges are in line with what is charged elsewhere. However, he said, during weekday play the fees at the course are below those charged at surrounding courses. He recommended the green fee for 18 hole play be in- creased from $3.00 to $3.50, and the fee for senior citizen play be increased from $1.00 to $1.25, which would bring the fees in line with charges in the surrounding area. Councilman Thomas Morton pointed out that the review does not reflect the reduced fee for the golf teams at the two City high schools. Parks & Recreation Director James Ruth said the City has a contract which is renewed annually with both the Downey High School and Warren High School. Mr. Ruth explained during the past six months the senior citizen play has increased by 28 percent and the revenue for-tho:g9lf-'course is up $25,000 over the same period last year. Mr. Thompson noted that if the increase is adopted by the City Council, it should be established for March 1st. It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Joseph DiLoreto, and passed by the following vote to approve the Increase of Green Fees at the Rio Hondo Golf Course, as recommended. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings Councilman Joseph DiLoreto asked that this matter be monitored very closely to see what effect the increases have on the total revenue picture. Mr. Ruth replied if there is any effect, he will advise the Council. Mr. Thompson spoke regarding Painting the Interior of the Library and indicated the interior has not been painted since 1959. He said the estimated cost will run approxi- materly $5200. to complete the job, and it is recommended an appropriation of $5500 be made from the Fund Balance of the General Fund to begin this year. Council Minutes 2/26/74 -5- It was moved by Councilman Donald Winton, seconded by Councilman Walter Temple, and passed by the following vote to approve the appropriation as recommended for the Painting of the Interior of the Library. AYES: 5 Councilmen: Temple, DiLoreto, Winton, Morton, Jennings ORAL COMMUNICATIONS The communication from Patricia A. Howe regarding Petition pertaining to Handling and Pre -casting Roles for Downey Community Theatre Productions was read in its entirety by the City Clerk. Mrs. Patricia A. Howe, 12016 Old River School Road, Downey, addressed the City Council regarding a petition in protest to the favoritism shown at the Downey Theatre in casting civic light opera productions. She suggested parts for productions be considered by an approval committee consisting of at least five people. Mrs. Howe commented on her discussions with the Director of Parks & Recreation and Theatre Director and of an open discussion meeting held_on February 21st. Mrs. Howe presented a copy of a petition and copies of letters in protest to the favoritism shown at the Downey Theatre, which are on file in the office of the City Clerk. Mrs. Chris Hinnen, 7823 Farm Street, Downey, discussed the favoritism she has wit- nessed at the Downey Theatre and said it is time the plays were changed with Downey residents having an opportunity to be chosen. Mayor Richard Jennings asked the City Manager to have the Director of Parks & Recreation prepare a report on this matter and take it back to the Parks & Recreation Commission for recommendation to the City Council. Mr. Joe Decker, 9046 Raebert Street, Downey, asked questions regarding the decision not to allow the consumption of Alcohol in the Downey Community Theatre. Mayor Richard Jennings informed Mr. Decker that this matter was discussed by the Council earlier in the meeting and no motion was made to approve the use of alcoholic beverages at the Downey Theatre. Therefore, he said, it will not happen at this time. `.Mayor Jennings further stated the Parks & Recreation Department made a thorough study of this matter; it was presented to the Parks & Recreation Commission; and it was the Commission's opinion it would be of no cultural value to the community and would be detrimental to the Theatre. Mr, Ken Miller, 7336 Cleargrove Drive, Downey, commended the Park Department and the City Council for not allowing Alcohol at the Downey Theatre. Mr. Miller commented on the Restroom Facility at the City Library and suggested adding an anteroom entranceway. He referred to a prior request to have ashtrays placed outside the Library. Mr. Miller referred to the Oral Communications portion of the Council meetings, wherein in the past Council members were polled and then the audience was permitted to participate. He said this has been reversed now, in that citizens in the audience contribute their input and then Council members make comments. Mr. Miller stated it is difficult if a person wishes to respond to a comment made by a Councilman. Mr. Miller indicated he was under the impression at this meeting there would be input pertaining to Sales Tax Revenues and possibily a reduction of the Utility Tax would be considered. He was informed that the interim report is not completed. Councilman Walter Temple asked about the progress being made on the Bicycle Path Study. Community Development Director Ervin Spindel explained the report is being worked on. He discussed the City's intention to request the County Road Department to consider construction of a bicycle bridge across the San Gabriel River at Foster Road for the benefit of citizens and bike riders in the southern part of the City to cross over to the County bike trail. Mr. Spindel indicated the channel narrows down at Foster Road, and it would be more feasible to construct a bicycle bridge at this point. He also indicated the City is working on the construction of ramps across the channel from Rio San Gabriel Park to Wilderness Park, which should begin as soon as the rainy season is officially over. Mr. Spindel mentioned contact is being made with the County Parks & Recreation Department about providing access from Wilderness Park to the bike trail. Council Minutes 2/26/74 -6- Councilman Joseph DiLoreto asked about the status of the lakes at Wilderness Park, City Manager Charles Thompson replied it was felt the lakes could be sealed by the use of a chemical additive in the water, which would result in a potential savings of several thousand dollars. However, he said, it did not prove sufficient and as a result, tests are now being made with a new additive. Mr. Thompson informed the Council if this additive does not work, the only other alternative will be to pfit.in:a liner. Councilman DiLoreto stated before the next Council Meeting he will present to every member of the City Council a Resolution regarding Tenure of Council Office, which he and Councilman Walter Temple request favorable action on. He said he feels the tenure of Council office should be limited and that a man who has served eight years on the Council should avail himself of the opportunity to let another person serve for a period of time. Councilman DiLoreto mentioned pursuant to the City Charter, a special election would have to be held and the question.would be put to the voters as to whether or not there should be a limitation on the tenure of Council office to two terms. He said at the same time, a change should be made in the City Charter reflecting the question of residential eligibility for members of the City Council, and he mentioned he has been informed by the City Attorney that the Charter provision pertaining to the two-year residency requirement has been declared unconstitutional, but there is reason to believe a one-year requirement would be constitutional. Councilman DiLoreto indicated the Resolution should be ready for Council scrutiny and hopefully be placed on the Council Agenda for the next evening meeting, Councilman Donald Winton remarked it is possible he may be out of the Country on April 8th, and he requested permission to be excused from that meeting. Councilman Winton said he would like to express like sentiment with Councilman DiLoreto relative to Council terms of office, however, he believes the City-wide district should be limited to four years with some provision for campaign expenditures. Councilman Thomas Morton concurred with Mr. Miller's remarks regarding the Library Restroom Facility, and he suggested placing a screen in front of the restroom might help. He pointed out that this matter was thoroughly considered by previous Councilmen years ago in connection with expanding the library, and an architect was hired and plans pre- pared, however, the library expansion was never brought to fruition. Commenting on the Fuel Shortage, Councilman Morton said he will believe there is a shortage when he sees the presidents of major oil companies waiting in line behind him for gasoline. Councilman Morton asked the Director of Community Development and the Traffic Committee within the next month to bring back a report of a study recommending No Parking Anytime on the.'South Side of Florence Avenue between Brookshire and Lakewood. He mentioned the problems caused by parked vehicles along the south side of Florence Avenue and of the bend at the corner of Brookshire causing poor visibility, Councilman Morton requested the study be made on eliminating all parking in the curbside lane. Community Development Director Ervin Spindel indicated staff is studying eliminating all parking throughout Florence Avenue, Mayor Richard Jennings asked Councilmen DiLoreto and Temple when preparing the Besolution limiting Council Tenure to Two Terms, to carefully consider whether the City of Downey should convert to an at -large election or whether it should retain its district form. Councilman Morton mentioned perhaps the Council at the same time should study the possibility of the City becoming a four-year Mayorship. He said this City loses out many times with regard to participation in outside organizations, such as the National League of Cities and the League of California Cities, because of the lack of continuity of office, and Downey does not have representation from the City on the Los Angeles County Board of Mayors. Councilmen Morton stated this should be studied if a Charter revision is proposed. Councilman Donald Winton said he will oppose any such Resolution not only because he is in his second term, but he might possibly want to exercise his privilege to run for a third term, and he would consult his attorney relative to constitutionality of denying him the privilege of his American citizenship to run for office if he so decided. Discussion followed, Council Minutes 2/26/74 -7- Mayor Jennings asked the City Attorney if the Council Districts are endangered by the distribution one man, one vote rule because they are not equal. City Attorney Royal Sorensen replied closely equal is all that is required. He said he does not know what the numerical allocation is for the Council districts, and he has not been given any information that would indicate they are widely apart. Mr. Sorensen stated the Charter contains a provision for re -defining boundaries to provide for equal distribution of voters within a district. Councilman Morton recalled that two years ago there was not a sufficient percentage variation to warrant any redistricting at that time. Councilman Winton commented that the freeway transition in District One equalized any redistricting question based on 700 moved families at three persons per family. Councilman Morton commented on Councilman Winton's suggestion regarding District Five serving one term (four years). - Mayor Jennings said perhaps District Five should be limited for the office of Mayor. There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was adjourned at 9:20 a.m. Robett L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer Richard M. J&ning tPayor Council Minutes 2/26/74 -8-